Trent Refractories MD Katy Moss was on an ICR event panel discussing female diversity in the refractories industry section on 18th of September 2024 at the ICR Eurogress in Germany. The event was organised by the Women@Refractories initiative, as part of the International Colloquium on Refractories. The event was a great opportunity to network and motion modern issues within the sector, while engaging in this important conversation.
The event started with an inspiring keynote from Dr. Stevie Schmiedel, a leading gender researcher, who discussed how gender diversity can be the key to tackling today’s skilled labor shortage. Dr. Schmiedel’s insights are sure to spark new ideas on how diversity can give you a strategic edge in a competitive world. Following the keynote, a panel discussion featured Dr. Annika Mertke, Dr. Daniela Gavagni, Milena Amábilis Ribeiro Gomes, Katy Moss, and Paula Campos de Oliveira. The session delved into the opportunities for the refractories industry to attract, develop, and retain competent women professionals. The panel explored the benefits and challenges of integrating gender diversity into the industry, with a focus on how these efforts can strengthen the workforce and drive innovation. The event was moderated by Simon Schnetzer, an expert on Gen Y and Gen Z.
The Mission:
Women@Refractories is actively committed to connecting women in the refractories industry, expanding career opportunities and creating a corporate culture where diversity is encouraged and recognised. We are working to break down traditional barriers and transform the entire industry through innovative approaches to workforce development. In doing so, we want to create a refractories industry that is an attractive working environment for all genders, career starters and career changers, people with different cultural and social backgrounds, where they can flourish and develop.
Goals for 2029:
Leadership: Women play an equal role in technical development, management and the strategic direction of companies
Women play a central role in technical development, management and the strategic orientation of companies. Targeted programmes to recruit, promote and retain women in technical and management positions have increased diversity at all levels of the companies. They are not only managers, but also role models and trailblazers for future generations.
Culture: Inclusive corporate culture at all hierarchical levels
The refractories industry has developed a corporate culture in which inclusion is firmly anchored in the company's values and processes. All employees feel valued and recognised for their individual skills and backgrounds, regardless of gender, age or origin. This culture of inclusion is established at all hierarchical levels and contributes to a respectful, open working environment.
Network and role models: A strong network and mentorship
Women@Refractories has built a strong network that actively supports women in the refractories industry. Mentoring programmes, workshops and the exchange of experiences have become essential tools for promoting young talent and building a strong community. Today, women are visible role models who pave the way for others and set new standards for careers in the industry.
Visibility: The refractories industry as an attractive field of work
Through a strong social media presence and targeted campaigns, Women@Refractories has increased the visibility of the refractories industry far beyond the industry itself. In particular, the series of interviews with successful women from the industry has helped to make female career starters and career changers aware of the diverse career opportunities. Today, the refractory industry is recognised as an innovative and future-proof field of work.
Life-phase orientation and development of potential:
The refractories industry has developed into an industry that incorporates the individual life phases of its employees. Flexible working models and targeted development programmes
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