Women in energyCelebrating diversity in natural resources talent |
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Some estimates suggest that as recently as the late 1970s, women held only about 5% to 10% of jobs in the energy and resources sector. Now closer to 30% or 35%, that figure is clearly on the rise. Indeed, women are increasingly assuming high-profile leadership positions, a trend that shows no sign of slowing.
Jane Allen, Deloitte’s Chief Diversity Officer and leader of the firm’s national Power & Utilities practice, is familiar with this issue first hand. “The energy sector is exciting and is definitely one that continues to change and grow,” she says. “As a woman in the industry, I am pleased to have made significant contributions in helping my clients reach their corporate objectives. And I intend to continue making those contributions until the end of my career.”
Deloitte fosters an environment in which people are valued for their integrity, talents, commitment and diversity. Accordingly, our Energy & Resources practice recognizes the overwhelmingly valuable contribution that women make not only in those industries, but also at Deloitte. It’s for this reason that we sponsored the first annual “Women in Energy” event, held in June 2008 at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. And it’s for this reason that we will continue to do so.
“The Women in Energy event and other initiatives like it are terrific opportunities for women in the sector to connect with one another and to showcase the progress they’ve made, all with an aim of encouraging them to continue growing while hopefully attracting others to get involved,” says Jane.
Deloitte’s contribution to the initiative is in keeping with those goals. In the coming months, we will profile both our own women energy leaders as well as those of the industry generally. Additionally, the Related Links below provide access to news items and other web content, including the sites of relevant professional associations and groups.
Meanwhile, we invite your feedback and your questions about this important topic.
Related links:
The PowerSuite: A forum for women leaders in the energy sector
Meet Shelley Brown: Building credibility in the energy sector
Meet Carmen Dybwad: Doing well by doing good
Read "Women with energy" in The Toronto Star (July 19, 2008) by Tyler Hamilton
Women of Influence Luncheon Series
Visit Women in Mining community portal
RBC Canadian Woman Entrepreneur Awards