There is a real opportunity for the sector to become a leader in advancing gender equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and carry the torch for future generations. And now is the time to do so for the electricity sector to continue to prosper and help decarbonize the economy and achieve climate targets.
Achieving Goals Through Diversity
- By Shahrzad Simab Manager, Climate Change and Clean Energy, Canadian Electricity Association
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n recent decades, Canada and many other countries have made extensive progress in advancing women’s rights in multiple sectors and in creating equitable work environments. Some sectors however, including that of energy, are traditionally more male-dominated. It remains one of the least gender diverse sectors in business. With electricity being central to Canada's goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, closing the gender gap is more vital now than ever before, as women have continuously proven to be key drivers of innovative solutions. The electrification of the economy will inevitably result in increasing demand for electricity and technological advancements will transform the way customers receive and consume power. At the cusp of this massive change in the industry, there is a need to recruit and foster the brightest minds amongst all genders, races, ethnicities and backgrounds.
42 canadian electricity association - THE GRID 2021 | Renewal
The way to move forward on such issues is awareness, education and understanding. That is why CEA has been holding monthly virtual staff gatherings, called ‘The Gender Partnerships Coffee Series’ during which important issues related to gender equality and treatment of women in the workplace are discussed. The vision for the Gender Partnerships Coffee Series is for CEA to be a safe space for employees, at all levels of the organization, to comfortably share their experiences and thoughts on topics that may be traditionally “uncomfortable” – yet incredibly important – with the intent of learning from one another and encouraging reflection. The mission is to create an open space where staff can engage in discourse, identify key areas where more work needs to be focused, and brainstorm solutions collectively in an effort to create meaningful change throughout the sector. Some topics of discussion during the coffee series include: • The impact of maternity/biological (menstrual)/ caretaking leave on women’s careers • Should employers place gender quotas when hiring? • Acknowledgement of women in formal settings – do’s and don’ts • Overcoming barriers to women stepping into leadership positions • Addressing the salary gap As the national voice of the Canadian electricity industry, CEA deemed it was important to first ensure internal staff have the tools and knowledge necessary, in order to effectively promote change widely. The goal of this initiative is to raise awareness, rather than to encourage staff to subscribe to specific opinions or ways of thinking. While disagreements, various opinions, and differing experiences are expected, they are also widely appreciated. By simply having these conversations, we move one step closer to true inclusion. To read more on CEA’s ED&I initiatives, please visit: electricity.ca/ED&I
