Power List – Human Resources Heroes – Marni McDowell

Starting as the first wellness program employee at Micron Technology 17 years ago, Marni McDowell has built a global wellbeing program that now employs 24 people across seven countries. As senior director of Global Wellbeing, McDowell’s recent accomplishments include opening Micron’s first Early Learning Center in Boise, making Micron the only U.S. semiconductor manufacturer to provide onsite child care.

“We recognize that providing child care options is a critical step in removing barriers so that everyone, including women and those from rural, underserved and underrepresented communities, have the ability to work, live and take care of their families,” said McDowell, who holds a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.

The five-acre child care facility, operated in partnership with the Treasure Valley Family YMCA, opened in September 2023 and provides STEM-focused early childhood education for children ages 0 through 6 years. This initiative addresses a crucial need in Idaho, where 42% of parents report having to quit jobs or decline employment due to child care challenges.

Under McDowell’s leadership, Micron has also expanded its employee support programs, including implementing a more robust Employee Assistance Program.

“The biggest challenge I have faced most of my career is in helping others understand the business impact of individual wellbeing on the organization,” McDowell said.

Looking ahead, McDowell’s team is developing an assessment tool to measure wellbeing and experience across all workplace locations globally. They are also implementing a peer support model to enhance mental health resources for employees, furthering Micron’s commitment to comprehensive employee wellbeing.