Mar 23, 2022

The Gender Gap in Manufacturing

Manufacturing pioneer Carol Latham, HR leader Jill Kissack, and TeamSense CEO Sheila Stafford got together to discuss the Gender Gap in HR & Manufacturing.

Sheila Stafford CEO & Co-Founder, TeamSense | Former Manufacturing Leader at GM, Whirlpool, and Fluke

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Table of Contents

• Speakers
  • Topics Covered

In a relatable and insightful conversation, Sheila, Jill, and Carol talk through their own experiences encountering gender bias in the workplace and offer advice to those looking to break into management in a male-dominated industry.

Speakers

• Carol Latham, author of A Chip Off the Silicon Block: The Power of Entrepreneurial Thinking
• Jill Kissack, HR Talent Advisor of Kincentric
• Sheila Stafford, CEO of TeamSense

Topics Covered

• Data around the gender gap in management and manufacturing
• Personal experiences on encountering bias and harassment in the workplace
• Advice for those looking to further their careers in male-dominated industries
• The importance of mentors and building your own personal board of directors
• Why allyship is crucial in eliminating gender bias
• The great resignation and talent uprising
• How to handle bias when you encounter it in the workplace
• The importance of finding a company that fits your values and goals

Watch 'The Gender Gap in Manufacturing' Full Video

Sheila Hello everyone. Thanks again for joining us. I'm Sheila Stafford, CEO of teamsense. TeamSense creates app-free digital tools that connect, engage, and enable the desk-less workforce. And I'll be your host today. I'm honored to host the conversation with these two incredible women.

Carol I'm Carol Latham, and I've been in manufacturing pretty much my career. I started with BP and then left there and started my own business in manufacturing.

Jill Hi, I’ve had 20 years in the HR space,

Sheila Our topic today is the gender gap in manufacturing, and what to do about it. Companies that have women well-represented can achieve higher profits and performance. However, focusing on gender parity is more challenging at higher levels.

Sheila For example, in manufacturing specifically, only 33 women are promoted for every 100 men. This lack of diversity has far-reaching impacts.

Carol I think there is some improvement. However, understanding goals and risk tolerance is crucial for progress.

Jill It’s important to ensure women receive equal opportunities for leadership development.

Sheila How do you recommend identifying allies in the workplace?

Jill Choose mentors who know your work and share your story to become more vulnerable and relatable.

Carol Differentiating oneself and concentrating on goals rather than titles is critical for success.

Sheila With the current talent uprising, organizations must consider transparency in promotion practices, building supportive cultures, and catering equally to all employees.

Carol Having an advocate helps create a more inclusive environment.

Jill For individuals facing bias, it’s vital to convey your aspirations and seek developmental opportunities.

Sheila Wrap-up advice: bring your whole self to work and know your value.