###### 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**](/content/company/sheila-stafford/index.html) CEO & Co-Founder, TeamSense | Former Manufacturing Leader at GM, Whirlpool, and Fluke

**Fix the root cause of No-Call No-Show with help from TeamSense**

##### Table of Contents

- [Speakers](/content/blog/gender-gap-manufacturing#speakers/index.html)
  - [Topics Covered](/content/blog/gender-gap-manufacturing#topics-covered/index.html)

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.