This years International Women's Day theme is Inspire Inclusion so we'd like to celebrate the passion, talent, and dedication of all women at AIS.
In honour of this important day, we spoke to some of the women working in a diverse range of fields here at AIS. Read on as we delve into the personal and professional experiences that have moulded some of the inspirational women who make us the company we are.
What inspired you to pursue your career path?
Eve Purdy, Design Engineer – “I chose to pursue a career in Engineering due to my STEM strengths and a desire to learn how to use maths and physics in a practical application industry. Initially interested in automotive, my interests changed to renewables after a Masters project involving a 1kW wind turbine design/build. The Offshore Wind industry is a rapidly developing, interesting place to be working and it makes me feel like I’m doing my bit for the planet at the same time.”
Can you share a mentor or role model who has influenced your professional journey?
Jayne Woods, HSEQ Manager – “Throughout my career, my mum has been my role model. She balanced a career in finance with the responsibilities of raising three children alongside a husband who often worked shifts or worked away. Despite these challenges, she worked full-time until retiring at 70. Her dedication, honesty, and respect for others has really influenced me. As a Manager, I aim to emulate her, creating a collaborative and respectful environment for my team and colleagues.”
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter your field?
Laura Jordan, Senior Development Chemist – “The same advice I’d give anyone – choose something you are good at and enjoy, and every small hurdle will be worth jumping over. STEM might be male dominated, but if you are surrounded by good, kind, helpful people, things like gender don’t matter at all.”
In what ways do you feel your role empowers you to make a positive impact on our organisation's goals?
Benita Aduckiewicz, Office Manager – “As the AIS Office Manager my aim is to create a supportive and caring environment that empowers others. I strongly believe that open communication, trust, collaboration, and a positive atmosphere cultivates an encouraging environment, which has a great impact on our company’s goals.”
Can you share a significant milestone or achievement you've reached in your career?
Saffie Upton, Project Engineer – “My prime achievement in my career is completing my Level 5 HND in Mechanical Engineering in June 2022. I’m also proud to have completed this whilst working full time as it was very challenging. Other milestones include spending time abroad on projects, whereby I have liaised with site crew, clients, and end client inspectors, as one of the only females on site.”
What do you find most rewarding about your role within our organisation?
Alix Blower, QA Coordinator – “The most rewarding part of my job is the recognition and support I receive from my colleagues. Since our line of work brings a lot of complexity, there can be quite a bit of engagement required to ensure the completion of quality documents are both accurate and delivered on time. I like having the opportunity to communicate with my peers and expand my knowledge throughout the business.”
Daria Marciocha, Manufacturing Technician – “As many things are new for me in AIS Manuplas, I am learning something new every single day. But most rewarding are the people I work with. I believe the company is leading by example, with everyone following high standards. This is one of the reasons why I enjoy working for AIS Manuplas.”
How do you stay motivated and inspired in your day-to-day work?
Taise Campos, Design Assistant Jr – “All the knowledge, learning and opportunities that I have developed here are motivating, and I will certainly take them with me for life. I take inspiration from knowing that we women have managed to conquer a large part of the job market, and today we are the ones who define our limits, who without losing our charm are the greatest force in the world.”
Michelle Garrard, QA Supervisor – "I stay motivated and inspired in my work by consistently meeting deadlines, targets, and goals. Having a good team and working effectively with them to lead us towards success is another source of motivation. Additionally, the satisfaction of completing challenging tasks/projects and seeing them through to the end inspires and further fuels my motivation in my day-to-day work life."
Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the future of women's inclusion globally?
Kari Carter, Marketing Manager – “My hope for the future of women's inclusion globally is genuine gender equality, where every woman has equal access to opportunities and resources. I aspire to see women represented and valued in all sectors of society, with barriers removed to create a world where women can thrive and contribute fully.”
How do you define inclusivity, especially in the context of empowering women globally?
Jayne Woods, HSEQ Manager – “I would define inclusivity, particularly in the global empowerment of women, as creating environments where all women, regardless of their backgrounds, feel valued, respected, and empowered to participate fully. It involves addressing unfair systems, making sure all voices are heard, and building unity to make the world more equitable and inclusive for women.”
International Women's Day is a reminder that we can all play a part in advancing inclusion and equality for women worldwide. To find out more about this years theme, and to contribute towards a more inclusive world for women, click here.
