International Women's Day 2021
Updated: Mar 9, 2021
Gray & Fick celebrates International Women's Day and together we raise a hand as we #ChooseToChallenge
International Women’s Day is a day of inspiration. It is a day to hold space to honour the trailblazers of yesterday, celebrate the changemakers of today and to empower the next generation.
“According to Statistics Canada in 2019 only 12.1% of the workforce in the construction industry were women."
The construction industry still remains a largely male-dominant industry. According to Statistics Canada in 2019 only 12.1% of the workforce in the construction industry were women. There have been many advances in gender equality that should be celebrated but there are still barriers and biases that need to change to encourage more women to join the workforce. We need to change outdated perceptions and help to inspire and educate the younger generation to see a world where your gender does not limit your opportunities in any trade or job.
International Women's Day is an opportunity to reinforce the fact that everyone has a role to play in forging a world of gender equality. At Gray & Fick, we’re taking this day to celebrate those in the industry who are pushing for change and asking ourselves what we can do to be role models and ensure inclusion within our company and the places that we work. Collectively, we can all help create a shift towards gender equality.
The theme of International Women’s Day 2021 is #ChooseToChallenge. We asked the women of Gray & Fick what IWD means to them and what they are choosing to challenge. Here’s what they had to say:
Taylor Keck, Technologist
“For me, International Women’s Day represents a day to celebrate all the successes of women around the globe. It gives women a chance to voice the struggles they have faced with gender inequality, stereotypes, and a society resistant to change. It gives us all a light to hold onto, knowing we are all in this together – and together we can do anything!
My name is Taylor, I choose to challenge gender stereotypes and bias within the construction industry.”
Rachel Hawkins, P.Eng., Structural Engineer
“To me, International Women’s Day is about get excited to see and be part of a shift within the construction industry and take action in encouraging kids of all genders to get excited about math and science and realize that no trade or job is unachievable.
My name is Rachel and I choose to challenge everyone to ask questions, stay educated and work together towards gender equality.”
Suzie Fick, Office Manager
"For me International Women’s Day is a time for reflection on all that has been accomplished, and all that still needs to be done. Positive role models are the key. If you have a role model that inspires, understands, and supports you, you have all the keys to succeed in all areas of your life. I believe all women need to own their power and never let their fears prevent them from doing what they know is right.
My name is Suzie. I choose to challenge other women to find their power when they feel disempowered."
Corey Stage, Junior Technologist
“International Women’s Day is important to me because it’s a time to celebrate women’s accomplishments and to reflect upon all of the opportunities available to us today thanks to the brave women who came before us.
My name is Corey. I choose to challenge by asking questions and starting conversations about gender inequality."
Together we #ChooseToChallenge. Together we can create change.