Wednesday, Feb. 8
10-10:25
Beyond Women in Utilities: What Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Really Mean
Speakers: Donna Renner & Karen Stafford-Brown, CP&Y
Diversity is an important issue for any organization. It’s not enough to hire people of different nationalities, races, genders, and sexual orientations – everyone needs to feel like they are truly welcome and free to be themselves. Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is the right thing to do.
10:30-10:55
No ‘Engineerettes’: My 39+ Years in Utility Engineering
Speaker: Kim Keefer, Paper-Dawson Engineers
This presentation will provide life experiences and advice from an engineer who successfully navigated the field from the 1980s to the present; from entry-level engineer, to managing vice president of water & wastewater. While geared toward women, men may also learn something about themselves and/or female colleagues and peers.
11-11:25
Jump Right In! How to Excel in Sewer Maintenance & Construction
Speaker: Michelle Beason, P.E., National Plant Services
Through examples of real-life experience (both humorous and not) build confidence and receive encouragement to enter the maintenance and construction field, and gain insider tips on how to get involved, make an impact, and quickly excel in the field of underground construction.
11:30-12
20 Years in the Engineering Field: A Female Perspective
Speaker: Christine Kirby, Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam
Learn about the implicit biases and barriers facing women in utilities, why they exist, and what we can do to address them and reach greater potential.