To drive real cultural change, we need communication and empathy, explained Yassi Panam, laboratory manager for Barley Chalu.
“In the high-quality aluminium sector, it’s about skills,” said Yassi. “If you have skills, and if you’re willing to work hard and learn, it is a super welcoming industry. Everyone’s respectful.
“For anyone who wants to upskill or progress in this industry: There is a lot of support out there. And there are ways of working your way up, if you’re willing to travel, and you put yourself out there to go to training.”
“I did psychology at university, which may not sound like it connects with my work but our industry is about communication and understanding each other,” continued Yassi. “Empathy helps get things done quicker. You get far more out of people if you understand and give them what they need, and trust people more.
“Inclusivity and diversity definitely matters, but it’s what you bring to the table that counts, and I don’t see this as an issue that needs solving in our sector. I recruit based on people’s ability, drive and want to work. I’d almost be doing those people a disservice by pointing out why they’re different.
“At the same time, it’s really important to recognise people who maybe don’t feel recognised. If any leader in this industry overlooks a person because of race, age or whatever, they’re actually damaging their company.
“To make the industry more welcoming and inclusive, one of the first things we should do is bring in younger people. We should go to schools and colleges to let people know that if you’re willing to work hard, and you want to be a specialist, our industry doesn’t need university degrees.
“Personally, my ambition is to keep growing, within the industry and within the business. I’m thinking about going into further education, and I would love to help the company run even more efficiently.”
This is a shortened version of an article from Glass and Glazing Products (GGP) Magazine. To read the full version, in the September 2023 edition of GGP, click here.
