Choose to Challenge – Women in the Water Sector
The theme for International Women’s Day in 2021 is ‘Choose to Challenge’, which is based on the premise that from challenge comes change. The water sector has traditionally been a male-dominated sector, but things are changing, and we are proud to be part of that change. The water sector actively supports diversity and inclusion and has committed to cultural change by bringing people together who have different ideas, gender, skills, education and cultural backgrounds. We can see that the landscape is shifting.
Lower Murray Water (LMW) is working towards gender inclusion and diversity and actively encourages women into trades and traditionally male-oriented roles. LMW recognises that diversity not only improves their organisational culture, it also improves their workplace by increasing job opportunities for women and expanding the talent pool in areas where there may be skill gaps.
LMW employee, Caitlyn Petty, shares her story of always wanting to work in a traditionally male-dominated trade. LMW provided her with that opportunity in March 2020, when they appointed her as a first year Electrical Apprentice.
Caitlyn says: ‘I’ve always wanted to work in the electrical field, in some type of trade. Working at LMW has been fun and a great way to learn from more experienced electricians and engineers. I have been able to use what I have learnt in many different functions of the business and I am always busy and on the go. My team have been a huge support, and I feel able to voice my views and ask lots of questions. Women should definitely give trades a go – put yourself out there and try your best.’
International Women’s Day celebrates the social, cultural, economic, and political achievements of women and is a call to action to accelerate gender parity. The 2021 theme asks us all to ‘choose to challenge’ – Caitlyn’s story shows us why it’s important.
Caitlyn chose to challenge and is reaping the benefits.
#internationalwomensday #choosetochallenge #genderparity
