GE’s female leaders share their perspectives

sQuashie

March 8, 2016 1:08 PM

GE has long been committed to women’s advancement both in society and in the workplace. In this post, some of GE’s female leaders, both in Africa and elsewhere, share advice and reveal what it’s like to work in a male-dominated field.

This year’s

Challenge Stereotypes

The so-called STEM industries – science, technology, engineering and maths – have struggled to attract women, in part as a result of social expectations that men are more suited to this type of work. However, women in these careers have found that even though they have been told they don’t have the mindset for a technical position, they have thrived in these roles and shattered stereotypes.

“There are specific jobs where a more technical mind set is needed, but there are many women with great technical skills and with the proper help, they can build on this talent and reach the career they work for and deserve. In the Healthcare sector we are quite balanced with regards to the gender workforce split. I always encourage young women to embrace their true passions when it comes to choosing their careers, as this is one of the most important ingredients for success, no matter the sector where they intend to build it,” says Alexandra Munteanu, GE Healthcare Country Manager for Romania and Moldova.

Fight for Work/Life Balance

Some technical industries can seem uninviting to women who want to work but are also conscious of family responsibilities and expectations. Many women consider work/life balance a non-negotiable when evaluating job opportunities. Oil and gas companies in particular can have a hard time attracting female candidates as the sector is associated with lengthy periods spent on oil rigs without family contact. Setting boundaries and having conversations with managers about needs for family and personal time are vital to creating a more welcoming workplace.

“The industry just needs to present a more compelling picture of the benefits offered for working mothers,” says Julie Dewane, vice president Global Supply Chain, GE Oil & Gas Global, based in Boston, Massachusetts. “I don’t think we do a good job of painting an appealing picture of engineering for young women and this is something we need to work on as an industry,” she said.

Take Advantage Of Company Resources

Many companies offer support networks for women that include training, mentorship and general encouragement as women travel through their professional journeys.

GE has its own network, GEWN, and many women have found its resources vital in succeeding at work.

“GE has seen my potential and supported me in my career progress efforts,”says Carol Koech Jenbacher Sales Leader for Sub-Saharan Africa. “Learning about senior executives’ experiences through the Women’s Network events has really inspired me. There is this feeling that everything is possible for women.”

Above All – Have Confidence And Do Your Work Well

When it comes down to it, hard work will be rewarded. Women performing high quality work and confidently setting examples for other female employees will only improve the state of women in the workplace.

Irene Kathukya, Engine Sales Leader for Africa at GE Aviation, said: “This is not about your gender, but about the excellence of your work and delivery.”

sQuashie