In this episode, Kathy Morrissey, the Director of Planning and Insights at Stansted Airport, shares her inspiring journey from the oil sector to environmental management and eventually landing in her current role at the airport. As one of the most senior female engineering directors in the country, Kathy discusses the challenges and successes she has encountered in balancing the scales of gender in science and engineering. The episode delves into Kathy's advocacy for women in engineering, her experiences in male-dominated environments, and the importance of planning ahead in the airport industry.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Kathy Morrissey, a senior female engineering director at Stansted Airport, has made significant progress in balancing gender in engineering, showcasing the benefits of diversity in financial and social aspects.

• Kathy's journey from the oil sector to environmental management and eventually to her current role at Stansted Airport highlights the importance of purpose-driven career transitions.

• Stansted Airport is working towards a more planned focus, aiming to be proactive in their operations rather than reactive, which can lead to a less stressful environment for both staff and passengers.

• Kathy's advocacy for women in engineering stems from her experiences as the only female in male-dominated environments, emphasizing the need for more women in the field to bring diverse skills and perspectives.

BEST MOMENTS

"We need more women in science and engineering."

"I was often the only woman out there, generally the only technical woman they did have for the bigger rigs."

"I quite liked being the only woman because you were treated with a lot more respect and you were more special." 

"I was really fortunate to get a position of director to kind of move up into the director of engineering and facilities role."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Privilege Survey  https://intelligentlinking261447.typeform.com/to/SNkQvD0v

Website: https://belongingpioneers.com/privilege-research-and-podcast

Email: equitychampions@belongingpioneers.com

Useful links: https://linktr.ee/BelongingPioneers

ABOUT THE HOSTS

Ishreen Bradley, a Strategic Pioneer, excels in guiding Professional Leaders through complex challenges with clarity, confidence, and courage. She focuses on cultivating inclusive cultures and authentic leadership, offering senior leaders advice, consultancy, training, and coaching.

Kami Nuttall, a workplace culture expert with over 20 years of experience, delves into governance, risk management, and the human experience in organizations. Trained by the Anti-Discrimination Foundation and a qualified hypnotherapist, she's passionate about fostering psychologically safe, inclusive workplace cultures. Kami champions accountability, believing organizations should prioritize both employees and customers, creating environments grounded in inclusivity and trust.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaminuttall-cultureguru-cultureauditor/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ishreenbradley/