International Women’s Day 2023
HunterNet Co-operative hosted International Women’s Day Luncheon
BlueZone attended the HunterNet Co-operative International Women’s Day (IWD) luncheon on the 8th of March 2023 in Newcastle. The event showcased the achievements of women from different sectors and raised awareness of women’s equality in our region and abroad. HunterNet’s luncheon included three guest apprentice panellists who spoke about their work experience as women in ‘traditional’ male roles such as Machinists, Electronics, and Mechanical Engineering.
IWD was started collectively by burning passion and tenacity for positive change back in 1911. Today, it is this very essence that ignites, inspires, directs and connects audiences globally. One world, one mission: a movement forging women’s equality. The IWD 2023 #EmbraceEquity campaign aims to start the discussion about why ‘equal opportunities are no longer enough’ and can in fact be exclusionary rather than inclusive. Equity can be defined as giving an individual what they need so that they can be successful. The term equity acknowledges that people don’t begin life at the same place and that circumstances can make it more difficult to achieve the same goals.
BlueZone supports and encourages women, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and provides opportunities for students to explore various roles within the industries we represent. Innovation is a key driver of change and by embracing new technologies and championing the unique skills of women in STEM, we can accelerate the progress toward a gender equal future.
BlueZone’s CEO, Elizabeth Karpiel, is committed to training the next generation of project managers and engineers through mentoring and teaching at the University of Newcastle. As one of only 3 women throughout her Engineering degree, Elizabeth is a true advocate for women in STEM and said, “STEM skills are predicted to be extremely important in the future and women need to be actively encouraged to continue to explore their curiosity to understand the world we live in and to push the boundaries”.
“Equality is giving everyone a shoe. Equity is giving everyone a shoe that fits” – Susan K Gardener, the Dean of the College of Education, Oregon State University.
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