Embracing Inclusion - Unlocking the Power of Diversity in the Workplace

"Embracing Inclusion: Unlocking the Power of Diversity in the Workplace" hosted by the Management Division. In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, having an inclusive work culture has taken on greater importance than ever before, as it plays a pivotal role in the success and sustainability of organizations. The challenges that modern workplaces are confronted with are of a magnitude and complexity that cannot be effectively addressed from a singular standpoint. The inclusion of diverse individuals, experiences, and perspectives has become imperative.

The mere presence of diversity is insufficient. It is essential to cultivate and nurture cultures that hold inclusivity in high regard. This approach equips organizations with the adaptability and openness needed to retain and grow the valuable talent they attract. We urge you to join us in exploring the profound significance of inclusion, understanding its far-reaching impact, and acquiring practical strategies to cultivate a work environment that is both diverse and inclusive.

Panel Members:

1. Gayle Gibson

Gayle worked for 3 years as a Partner in Accordant Advisors where they worked with clients on creating more inclusive workplaces. She is also a Board Member of Carbon Engineering Ltd. Gayle is proven at driving transformational change from the C-Suite to the shop floor focused on business success and balancing the needs of stakeholders. Broad success in product management, supply chain, manufacturing, R&D and engineering in multiple businesses. Implemented complex business transformations.

2. Irene Legiec

Irene is the former Senior Director for RNG Production at Air Liquide. She held senior leadership positions at Covanta as Senior Director of Continuous Improvement, and VP of Design Engineering, and has 27 years of experience with DuPont in various leadership and technical roles. She is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt, and has managed and led technical organizations and project teams, with a passion for personnel development, servant leadership, and customer focus.

3. Joshua Schackmann

Joshua (they/them) is a research engineer at Origin Materials, a CA-based company specializing in the production of biomass-derived compounds. They have a broad research background in several fields, including tribology, microfluidics, polymer science, and lab-scale engineering. In addition, they have a passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, in particular for disability and LGBTQ advocacy, which they pursue both professionally as well as an AIChE member.

Panel Discussion Topics:

What is “Inclusion”, why it matters, and how it manifests itself in organizations.

The Economic Impact of Inclusion: Understanding how diversity in the workforce leads to increased creativity, innovation, improved decision-making, and enhanced customer satisfaction, ultimately driving financial performance.

Fostering Inclusion in Large Corporations: Exploring the diversity and inclusion initiatives undertaken by leading companies within the oil and gas industry, energy industry, and chemical process industry.

Cultivating Inclusive Work Cultures in Smaller Companies: Learning practical steps and cost-effective strategies to promote diversity and inclusion in smaller businesses, emphasizing the unique challenges and opportunities they encounter.