Stronger and better together

This past week, I had the opportunity to spend some time in New York visiting with GE Renewables leaders in Schenectady, and meeting with some future Wind Technicians at the GE Renewable Energy Learning Center in Niskayuna.

The Learning Center is truly an amazing place. People come from all over for hands-on training at this state-of-the art facility. While I was there, I had the privilege of touring the facility with Patty Stanton, Global Learning Leader, who is in charge of the center. Patty is so energetic and knowledgeable about the center and about the Renewables industry, it was a pleasure to spend time with her. We just celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8, and Patty is a perfect example of how strong women contribute to make our business better.

A Wind Technician’s job has traditionally been a male-dominated field. It’s a tough job for men and women alike, oftentimes working in remote locations for long stretches of time.

But, for someone who is exhilarated by a job where they spend their days working more than 300 feet in the air, and who take satisfaction in knowing that the work they do is changing the landscape of the power industry while bringing energy to millions, it’s also an incredibly rewarding job.

Our challenge is to find women who are excited by these opportunities. Once we do, it’s also our responsibility to support and encourage them, be mentors so we can help them advance in their careers and listen to them when they bring new ideas. Diversity in all its forms makes us stronger which is why I’m committed to working with our human resources teams to put strategies in place that will help us bring more women into our Renewables workforce and help them grow their careers with us. I would love to see the day when we have equal numbers of talented men and women in the field and in leadership roles.

This International Women’s Day, and every day, my goal is to strive for diversity and equality. We’re stronger and better together!