IPAF launches Women in Powered Access initiative

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The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has launched Women in Powered Access, an initiative that recognises and celebrates the contributions of women in powered access, and outlines career paths for women who are already in the industry or looking to enter it.

The initiative was officially launched at Vertikal Days 2022  in the UK, and will see IPAF “provide a platform for the stories and case studies of women in the sector to be shared”, through its its print, web and online resources.

IPAF President Karin Nars, who the initiative was inspired by after she was named the first woman elected to the role earlier this year, said, “With the Women in Powered Access initiative, we invite women of all ages and different professional roles to share their stories of inclusivity.

“Through these stories and role models, we want to communicate the broad opportunities our industry can offer women. And we do not want to compare or exclude anyone.

“We are inviting everybody with a passion for our industry, and a passion for safety in powered access, to be heard and to contribute. It is all about cooperation and bringing different perspectives to the table – for the good of our industry.”

As part of the initiative, IPAF also pledged to “continue to invite prominent women speakers to present at IPAF events”.

Peter Douglas, CEO & Managing Director of IPAF, said, “We are pleased to begin that by profiling two women who are among the first intakes to the new IPAF Powered Access Engineering Apprenticeship at North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College.

Indeed, apprentices Catherine McCreedy and Megan Campbell were at IPAF’s event stand at Vertikal Days, speaking to visitors about their experiences.

“We hope they will be the first of many, and that their stories and those of others will inspire women both already in and yet to enter our industry,” said Douglas.