Breaking Barriers: Celebrating Women Leaders in Electronics

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) has become increasingly important in the electronics industry. One of the key aspects of social responsibility within this sector is diversity and inclusion. Scott White, founder and executive director of Pragmatic Semiconductor and one of the judges for Electronics Weekly's Women Leaders in Electronics Awards, emphasizes the significance of this issue. "Happily, it has also been shown to improve business outcomes, so it's a win-win," he says.

Andy Sellars, strategic development director at Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult and another judge for the awards, believes that more can be done to encourage women to enter the industry and become future leaders. "These awards have a wide variety of categories, so there is an opportunity for women to apply at all stages of their career and where they have made a positive and invaluable contribution to different projects, initiatives, and fields across the electronics landscape," he explains.

One challenge often faced by women is a reticence to promote themselves. Karen Holland, CEO of XCAM and a judge on this year's panel, encourages everyone in the electronics industry to participate. "I think that women tend not to be inclined to promote themselves and their achievements; perhaps we need to encourage male co-workers to nominate their female colleagues," she suggests.

Dr. Nicola Thorn, CEO and founder of AND Technology Research and a judge at this year's awards, offers advice to aspiring women leaders. "My advice would be to embrace the opportunity, unabashedly, celebrate your accomplishments, however small they seem to you as your experience and successes can inspire others," she advises.

Break out and be a part of the change. Enter yourself and/or a colleague for the Women Leaders in Electronics Awards. Entries close on 07 February.

The Women Leaders in Electronics Awards ceremony will take place on Tuesday 23 April 2024, at London's De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms.