International Women’s Day has been celebrated globally for many years. It is a day we commemorate the many accomplishments of women while recognizing and promoting awareness of gender equality.
Join us in celebrating International Women’s Day 2023 by enjoying a few interviews with several amazing female teammates at KION North America!
What drew you to work with KION NA in the material handling industry?
The incredible reputation for product quality.
How would you define women empowerment in the professional setting?
Creating an environment that both genders feel comfortable contributing their knowledge and experience.
What are some of the benefits of having empowered women in the organization?
Diversified viewpoints, varied approaches to challenges and problem-solving. Also, leveraging different hard and soft skills.
What are some experiences you have that motivate you to think/care about women empowerment in the workplace?
Through experience, I know that I am my most creative when I feel that my knowledge and experience have value and should be shared. We are our best employees when we are encouraged and comfortable.
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
I think the day is a great reminder that gender differences are an asset. We are complementary, and that makes for well-rounded and holistic organizations.
Who are your top three female role models (whether you know them personally or not), and what makes them inspirational to you?
The only woman that I know intimately enough and would call my role model is my grandmother. She was selfless, strong and wise.
What is the most important message you would want to share with young women who are starting their careers?
Stay authentic. Ultimately, that will lead to the best outcomes for yourself and for your organization.
What drew you to work with KION NA in the material handling industry?
Location initially but the people keep me coming back!
How would you define women empowerment in the professional setting?
Women empowerment is not to segregate us as a population but to show we can bring the same talent, drive and strength to the table.
What are some of the benefits of having empowered women in the organization?
Women have such strength and tenacity! The last several decades have been amazing in watching women truly become their own.
What are some experiences you have that motivate you to think/care about women empowerment in the workplace?
Having been in the professional workforce for several decades, I have seen women’s roles change from a more support/background field to being front and center. Those roles include driving forward in fields previously left to men, such as manufacturing. I still remember when the dress code policy required women always to wear pantyhose! It’s inspiring to see all the change that has occurred.
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
It’s important for young girls to see the doors open to them in any profession. Don’t let anything stop you from pursuing your goals!
Who are your top three female role models (whether you know them personally or not), and what makes them inspirational to you?
Jane Addams, Emily Dickinson, and my mom.
What is the most important message you would want to share with young women who are starting their careers?
Keep going – for anybody just starting your career. If you get knocked down nine times get up 10. And don’t ever close yourself to new career paths; enjoy where your future takes you!
How would you define women empowerment in the professional setting?
More women in executive and leadership roles, offering flexible opportunities to better align with family responsibilities and promoting a strong intolerance to sexual harassment.
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
Because it’s important to acknowledge how wonderful we are as a collective. Go kiss your mothers.
Who are your top 3 female role models (whether you know them personally or not), and what makes them inspirational to you?
Rosa Parks, Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Notorious RBG) and Michelle Obama
What is the most important message you would want to share with young women who are starting their careers?
Mental health is #1, don’t sacrifice it ever, for anything. Always family first.
What drew you to work with KION NA in the material handling industry?
I researched KION North America before applying and saw great feedback and reviews. During my interview process everyone had great feedback and longevity with the company. I knew that is what I wanted to be a part of as well.
How would you define women empowerment in the professional setting?
Providing great feedback and resources for women to grow and evolve.
What are some of the benefits of having empowered women in the organization?
Women provide a different point of view that often gets unnoticed. Empowering women strengthens organizations so they can operate successfully.
What are some experiences you have that motivate you to think/care about women empowerment in the workplace?
I have been in learning and development for a long time. I have seen women overcome their self-doubt and the doubts of others many times. Overcoming these obstacles is possible, and I’m happy that I have seen and been a part of many success stories. I want to see more.
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
Visibility is important. Sometimes you don’t know how far you can go if you don’t see others like you there.
Who are your top 3 female role models (whether you know them personally or not), and what makes them inspirational to you?
Mellody Hobson and Iyanla Vanzant. I find inspiration from all women that I encounter.
What is the most important message you would want to share with young women who are starting their careers?
You are doing better than you think.
How would you define women empowerment in the professional setting?
Inspiring leaders to come to the table with ideas and to empower them to share their knowledge and wisdom, regardless of title, age, and background. And recognizing these contributions by having a diverse group of leaders, including women in executive positions.
What are some of the benefits of having empowered women in the organization?
You create a diverse group of leaders, strengthening the organization through creativity, perspective, and company culture.
What are some experiences you have that motivate you to think/care about women empowerment in the workplace?
I’ve had some wonderful mentors throughout my career and appreciate the time they took with me to share and listen. It makes an impact on someone aspiring to grow.
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
It not only celebrates the accomplishments of women, but it also brings attention to women’s rights and gender equality. These stories are extremely important for young girls and women to hear as they set out to accomplish their goals in work and life.
What is the most important message you would want to share with young women who are starting their careers?
Take time to talk to everyone, regardless of title or position of power. Everyone has insight to offer and experiences to share. Take time to slow down and listen.
How would you define women empowerment in the professional setting?
Women feeling comfortable voicing their opinions.
What are some of the benefits of having empowered women in the organization?
As someone who is just starting their career, having women role models to look up to means a lot to me.
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
Only 12 countries have full equal rights for women. It is important to note how far we have come and how far there still is to go.
What are some of the benefits of having empowered women in the organization?
If women are not provided with opportunities where we feel empowered, then the improvement within the organization, advancements, and innovation would be limited and could cause hindrances within the course of the development of our organization as we continue to grow and expand.
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
It is important to celebrate International Women’s Day because it is a reminder to all of how far women have come in our society as we have fought and continue to fight for equality. The efforts of women in past generations continue to pave the way for women today.
Who are your top 3 female role models (whether you know them personally or not), and what makes them inspirational to you?
My top female role model was my grandmother. She raised 18 kids while working full-time. It created the foundation of representing for her daughters and granddaughters, a balancing act that may have been stressful, but the personal and professional gain made all of the multitasking worthwhile.
What is the most important message you would want to share with young women who are starting their careers?
My advice to young women is that they will need confidence to build relationships while starting their careers. I was very lucky to have an encouraging manager and mentor in my early career. Without their constant support and guidance, I would not have been so confident, and I suspect that I would not have progressed as fast.
Interested in joining our team? We’re hiring! Find the right opportunity for you here!
