The recent #ARBS2024 exhibition featured a forward-moving initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity within the HVAC&R and building services industry. This year’s Women in HVAC&R Program, held on May 29, 2024, provided a platform for celebrating the vital contributions of women in this traditionally male-dominated field. Our General Manager, Phillipa, had the privilege of attending this event, and she shared her insights and reflections on this inspiring and meaningful program.
About the Women in HVAC&R Program
Phillipa joined over 160 professionals, both men and women, for the Women of AIRAH breakfast, featuring guest speaker Ginger Scoggins. The breakfast session highlighted powerful statistics concerning the lack of diversity within the industry and STEM fields at large. Ginger’s speech, coupled with the collective energy of the attendees, set the tone for a day dedicated to pioneering progress.
“It was fantastic to listen to the discussions around what we as individuals and business can do to ‘Pioneer Progress,'” Phillipa recounted.
The program also included a dynamic panel discussion focused on ‘unlocking the power of diversity in our industry.’ This discussion went beyond gender, embracing diversity in culture, belief systems, and socio-economic backgrounds. The dialogue emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to inclusivity, one that recognises the value of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and success.
“I came away appreciative of our workplace with women in management, an emphasis on work/life balance, a 47% female staff, and many working parents. Our culture and service offering are richer because of the combination of people in our team,” Phillipa noted.
“I also came away with more awareness of the diversity blind spots within our own organisation and industry and look forward to playing our part in driving change and chasing equal opportunity through daily choices,” Phillipa remarked. This commitment to continuous improvement is at the heart of McIntosh Air’s mission to model diversity and inclusion in all facets of the business.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the ARBS Women in HVAC&R Program was the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share a commitment to diversity. Phillipa highlighted the sense of community and mutual support that permeated the event.
“It was refreshing and inspiring to share a morning with like-minded people committed to modelling diversity in their own areas of HVAC, and of course to see so many friendly faces on the Temperzone stand throughout the afternoon,” she shared.
At McIntosh Air, we believe that diversity is not just a goal but a continuous journey. We are proud to be part of an industry that values the contributions of all its members and are committed to playing our part in shaping a more inclusive future.