TIPS TO SUPPORT WOMEN IN THE PACKAGING WORKFORCE

What are some of the ways the packaging industry can better support women? The executives profiled in this special edition have several suggestions.

Promote flexible work: Flexible work arrangements and workforce policies tailored to maintaining a healthy work-life balance featured prominently. “By offering flexible schedules, remote work options, and parental leave policies, the industry can create an environment where women can thrive professionally while balancing personal responsibilities,” said Sridevi Narayan-Sarathy, global foods packaging, R&D senior fellow for Plano, Texas-based PepsiCo.

Create coaching, mentoring and sponsorship programs: Tailor programs specifically for women to provide guidance, support and networking opportunities. This is especially important for women in the early stages of their careers, said Rachael Tomasello, global director of strategic capabilities at McLean, Va.-based Mars, Inc. “Leadership positions require courage and tenacity,” she said. “Aspiring leaders can see how others navigate complex challenges and mimic behaviors while building their own personal style.”

Challenge unconscious bias: Companies can implement training programs that identify and build awareness of bias, promote more inclusive behaviors and contribute to a more equitable workplace. “Collectively, I think the entire industry can benefit from challenging stereotypes to address unconscious biases,” said Charlotte Ashcraft, manager, packaging and graphic development at Bethlehem, Pa.-based Just Born Quality Confections.

Invest in STEM programs aimed at women: Set the stage for the next generation of women entering the workplace by investing in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. It’s important to provide educational opportunities and positive role models both inside and outside the company. “Whether it’s through youth mentorship programs, career days, or simple conversations with the young women in our lives, we need to be intentional about sharing our stories, and creating pathways for the next generation to see themselves as leaders in our industry,” said Kelley Stacey, president and CEO of SMC Corporation of America.

Making meaningful progress will require everyone, both men and women, to play a part.

“I am encouraged by the progress the industry is making,” said Anne Tate Bedarf, senior manager, packaging and plastics sustainability at New York-based Colgate-Palmolive. “Over the past decade I have seen tremendous growth in this industry as far as how women are treated and listened to, and how male colleagues have stepped up as leaders, mentors, allies and teammates.”