Growing together
AIR Radiators manufacturing engineer Jennifer Mueller is one of the 29 women to have gained valuable guidance through the Women in Manufacturing Network Mentoring Program.
Teamed with mentor Glenn Lyons, operations manager at the Geelong refinery, the pair last year progressed through the structured program that supports both mentees and mentors to grow and achieve positive career outcomes.
Now in its third year, the Women in Manufacturing Network Mentoring Program is co-ordinated by Geelong Manufacturing Council and sponsored by Viva Energy.
During the 2019 program more than 80 per cent of mentees sought career advancement opportunities during the program. All mentees reported that the program exceeded their expectations and some will participate again in 2020.
Mentors also reported the program as beneficial to their career development, particularly in developing their understanding of the benefits of creating diverse and inclusive teams, with many gaining a greater understanding of the issues women wrestle with in their careers.
The program content and framework gives mentors the skills and language to work with their mentees to overcome these hurdles.
The WIMN Mentoring Program is facilitated by Linda Betts.
This year’s program still has a limited number of mentee positions available. Contact Leanne Nelson at the Geelong Manufacturing Council on 5222 8000 for more information.
I FOUND Glenn inspiring. I have a great respect for him and for what he has achieved in his career. Glenn asks great questions that get me thinking and reevaluating my mind frame and perspective. Sometimes you can get caught up in your situation and thoughts, he helped me to step out of it and provided clarity.
GLENN and I both had a positive experience and I believe Glenn is looking forward to mentoring again. He is more aware of the issues of women in the workplace, in leadership and especially I think the negotiations around maternity leave, due more to the efforts of those running the program than me.
IT was great to be able to connect with the same group of female engineers and researchers in the region. More than just “hi and bye”. It doesn’t happen too often for me. It’s like spotting an endangered species in the wild.