From the 1930s through modern times, African Americans have faced marginalization regarding equal access to higher-paying job opportunities, including job opportunities in the information technology (IT) industry. This study adopts social capital theory as its framework to investigate the influence of social capital on individuals' careers, explicitly focusing on the impact of limited access to social capital on African Americans' underrepresentation in the IT industry and its effects on employment and executive-level roles for Black professionals. Social capital, which encompasses networks, relationships, and mentorships, is crucial in determining career success. This research employs qualitative interviews with African American executives working in the IT industry to gain insights into their experiences and the significance of social capital in their professional journeys. The study aims to address several key research questions, including examining social capital's impact on career opportunities, identifying factors contributing to limited access to social capital, and understanding how social networks and mentorship can help overcome barriers to career advancement. By utilizing social capital theory as the theoretical framework, this study seeks to provide effective solutions that foster inclusion, expand opportunities, and narrow the diversity gap in the IT industry. The recommendations outlined in Chapter Five are as follows: (a) create and implement diversity programs to develop, mentor, and sponsor Black men and women in IT; (b) establish an incentive compensation diversity plan to support the hiring and promotion of African Americans; (c) create a focused recruiting plan to attract Black talent in tech; (d) address biases and cultural differences in tech organizations via DEI and bias education and training. These efforts align with the organization's objectives of enhancing diversity, social capital, and inclusion in leadership positions. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]