Standards Australia acknowledges the contributions of women in the workforce. In 2023, in a bid to enhance essential skills, foster leadership, and build a strong support network for our female employees in the IT and Data teams, the organisation launched its augural Women in Technology (WiT) Program. In early August, Standards Australia proudly celebrated the graduation of 22 women, marking a significant milestone in advancing gender diversity and leadership within its organisation.

Emma Harrington, CEO of Standards Australia, awarded the certificates to the graduates, highlighting the program’s dual focus on leadership development and building a strong support network for female employees in IT and Data.

Stacey Mathews, Technical Project Manager, and Urmi Mandal, Information Security Manager, applied the skills they acquired from the program in their leadership roles. Stacey was seconded as a Program delivery lead for nine months prior and Urmi took on the opportunity and responsibility of managing a staff member.

Stacey said, “The WiT program has been instrumental in shaping my leadership skills. It helped me define my personal brand, recognise my unique traits, and use them to support my team through authentic leadership. These insights have empowered me to lead with confidence and integrity, fostering a supportive and cohesive team environment. By leveraging these skills, I contribute to Standards Australia’s success by promoting a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration.”

Urmi echoed Stacey’s sentiments, adding, “I’m grateful to Standards Australia’s leadership team for their focus on women in IT through the WiT program. The program has deepened my understanding of people’s behaviour, empowered my personal growth, and enhanced my effectiveness at work. The insightful speaker sessions, mentorship, and workshops have taught me to recognise my achievements, communicate assertively yet thoughtfully, and advocate more effectively for myself and others.”

The success of the inaugural WIT program has been profound, and Standards Australia is committed to continuing the initiative, incorporating feedback to enhance the experience. Future focus will include enhancing career opportunities, providing tailored development, and training, offering additional support and networking opportunities, and fostering deeper engagement with speakers to further empower participants.

Previous speakers have included Kareen Riley-Takos, Chief Operating Officer at Standards Australia, Tracey Gramlick, Chair of the Board at Standards Australia, and Dean Jackson, Director of Global P&C Digital Experience at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.  

This coming year’s program will feature even more inspiring speakers, with Emma Harrington set to launch the WIT series when it begins in September 2024.

Learn more about opportunities at Standards Australia.

‍