By: Samantha Thacker

Drew Soule is a seasoned human resources professional with a wealth of experience in corporate HR roles, including Senior HR Business Partner, HR Manager, and HR Director. His career trajectory took a significant leap after he completed his Master’s in Human Resource Management from the University of Illinois. Soule’s passion for people and their development led him to notable positions in prominent organizations such as Northrop Grumman and Pinterest. 

At Northrop Grumman, he supported space engineers as an HR Business Partner, while at Pinterest, he played a crucial role in aligning the company’s HR policies with its mission and values. His expertise lies in talent management, employee relations, and organizational development, making him a valuable asset to any company. 

Beyond his professional accolades, Drew Soule is deeply involved in advocacy work for the disability community, specifically focusing on making air travel more accessible for individuals in wheelchairs. 

This interview with Drew Soule, explores his experiences, insights, and vision for the future of HR.

Career Path and Achievements

Can you tell us about your career journey and how you became involved in HR?

My career in HR began after I completed my Master’s in Human Resource Management at the University of Illinois. I was drawn to HR because of my passion for people and organizational development. My first significant role was at Northrop Grumman, where I worked as an HR Business Partner supporting space engineers. This experience allowed me to understand the unique needs of engineers and devise strategies to meet those needs. Later, I joined Pinterest, which was an exciting phase of my career as I got to shape HR policies that aligned with the company’s mission of inclusivity and innovation.

What are some of the biggest achievements you have had in your career?

One of my rewarding experiences was working on the HR strategies for the James Webb Space Telescope project at Northrop Grumman. It was an incredible program that required a specialized approach to support the materials and test group, ensuring everything was mission-ready for launch. At Pinterest, I am proud of helping cultivate a culture of inclusivity and innovation, which was a transformational journey for the company’s HR practices.

Challenges and Trends in HR

What are some of the biggest challenges facing HR today?

The HR landscape is continuously evolving, and one of the biggest challenges is adapting to new transformative technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. These advancements can revolutionize our work but also pose a risk of disrupting the labor force. As HR professionals, it is crucial to ensure that we navigate these changes in a way that prioritizes the well-being and employability of our workforce. This involves investing in training and development programs that equip employees with skills needed to thrive alongside these technologies.

What trends in HR excite you the most?

I am really excited about the trend of organizations placing a renewed emphasis on cultivating optimized employee experiences. There is a growing recognition that supporting employees’ mental health and overall work-life balance is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity. This trend is driven by innovative applications of advanced people analytics and intuitive HR platforms that help design customized programs tailored to individual employee needs.

Vision for the Future

Where do you see the HR industry in the next 5 to 10 years?

I believe the next few years will be transformative for HR, with AI playing a significant role in reshaping the labor market. AI-driven insights will enable us to better understand and empower our people, while also presenting challenges such as job displacement. We must foster a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability, encouraging employees to continually upgrade their skills to meet the evolving demands of an AI-augmented workplace. The future of HR will be about crafting agile, human-centric systems that empower employees to chart their own dynamic career paths.

What advice would you give to someone seeking a career in HR?

For those looking to enter HR, I would advise them to stay adaptable and continuously seek knowledge. The field is always changing, especially with technological advancements, so it’s important to embrace lifelong learning. Building strong interpersonal skills is also crucial, as HR is all about people management and fostering relationships within an organization. Lastly, having a genuine passion for helping people can drive success and fulfillment in this career.

Personal Passions and Advocacy

You are known for your advocacy work in the disability community. Can you tell us more about that?

My advocacy work is deeply personal and stems from my belief in equal opportunities for all. I am particularly passionate about advancing access and equity for individuals in wheelchairs. One initiative I am involved in aims to make air travel more accessible for people using wheelchairs. These efforts are about ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live and travel with dignity and independence. This work complements my professional life, as it aligns with my commitment to inclusivity and support within the workplace.

Outside of work and advocacy, what are your interests?

I am an avid traveler and love exploring new places, which often involves experimenting with diverse cuisines. I also have a deep love for live music, which takes me to music festivals around the world. These interests not only provide personal enjoyment but also allow me to connect with different cultures and perspectives, enriching my worldview.

In conclusion, Soule embodies a blend of professional excellence and personal passion. His journey in HR is marked by a commitment to inclusivity and a vision for a future where advanced technologies enhance human potential. Soule’s advocacy for disability rights and his diverse personal interests highlight his multifaceted approach to life, making him an inspiring figure in both the professional and personal spheres.

Drew Soule successfully blends a commitment to professional excellence and personal passion. His career in HR is marked by a commitment to inclusivity and a vision for a future where advanced technologies enhance human potential. Soule’s advocacy for disability rights and his diverse personal interests highlight his multifaceted approach to life, making him an inspiring figure dedicated to fostering environments that celebrate diversity and empower individuals to reach their fullest potential, both in the workplace and in society.

Published by: Annie P.