Member Article

Rachel wins place to boost utilities' diversity

Rachel Gray, a Project Manager with Energy Assets Utilities (EAU), has won a place on the Women in Utilities (WIU) Success Programme, an innovative training, mentoring and networking scheme that promotes gender diversity.

Rachel was nominated for the programme by Karen Robinson, Regional Operations Director at utilities construction company EAU, and will benefit from 15 days’ high-level work-related training. She will also connect with industry leaders passionate about empowering women working in the utilities sector.

“When I was at school, career opportunities in utilities and construction were rarely, if ever, promoted for girls and young women,” said Rachel. “Yet, my experience within EAU has been very positive and now I want to play my part in promoting the benefits of greater gender diversity in our fantastic industry.”

The latest intake for the WIU Success Programme, run by Develop Training with support from Severn Trent, British Gas and Eon, comprises nine candidates and aims to accelerate the careers of women through advocacy and mentoring and by creating a culture of empowerment. Participants will examine the challenges faced by the industry, receive support from a network of industry leaders and develop core knowledge to help companies identify talent and achieve gender equality.

Commented Karen Robinson: “As a senior manager in utilities construction, I see at first hand the value that people like Rachel bring to our industry. I had no hesitation in nominating her for this aspirational programme, because we must continue to encourage girls and women to expand their careers horizons – and to inspire those already employed in our industry - via women like Rachel who has such passion for her work and continues to increase her knowledge on a daily basis.

“I want women to know that it’s ok to step outside of traditional gender boundaries and try something different; the utility industry is such an exciting place to be right now, and we need more women on board to deliver the huge changes driven by society, government and climate change.”

Rachel, based at the company’s Birstall (Leeds) office, joined EAU three years ago as a trainee Project Manager and is now Project Manager for the north east of England.

She said: “I am extremely excited to be part of the programme and grateful to Karen – who is my role model – for nominating me for this opportunity. I am very much looking forward to sharing my experiences with other females in our sector, adding to my work-related qualifications and learning through access to a network of industry leaders. I hope in time to become a role model for the next generation of female recruits.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Colin Bridgman .