Double win at women in resources awards

The award winners (l-r) Alcoa’s Michael Parker and Catherine Chappell, BHP’s Jenny Knight, Rio Tinto’s Donna Stace, Woodside’s Fiona Hick and Shell’s Meredith Prior.

Alcoa of Australia (Alcoa) has been recognised for its champion commitment and outstanding initiatives in promoting gender equality, winning two prestigious awards at the Western Australian Chamber of Minerals and Energy (CME) 2019 Women in Resources Awards on Friday night.

Chairman and Managing Director Michael Parker was named 2019Women in Resources Champion for his commitment to promoting and empowering women, while the company’s employee-driven ‘call to action’ program, Catalysts for Change, received the 2019Outstanding Company Initiative award.

In accepting the prestigious endorsement at the 10-year anniversary event of the CME’s Women in Resources Awards, Mr Parker said it was an honour to be recognised, although there was still more work to do in this important area of social equality and equity.

“We have privileged opportunities as leaders to change organisations, to lead by example and influence people,” Mr Parker said.

“And while I can set the tone, I know that the people at the locations across our company are the real change makers. I firmly believe that it’s everyone’s responsibility to build a culture of equality, promote diversity and to affect positive change in our workplace. We are all accountable to make a difference.”

Catalysts for Change has seen hundreds of employee-catalysts, from the highest levels of management to mine, refinery and office employees, pledge to promote the development of women, build networks, advocate for change and showcase the successes of women in the workplace.

Alumina Strategic Asset Manager and Alcoa Women’s Network Lead, Catherine Chappell, accepted the Outstanding Company Initiative Award honouring Alcoa’s focus and innovative programs.

“Our gender equity and inclusion journey extends over two decades, and we’re extremely proud of what we’ve achieved,” Ms Chappell said.

CME Chief Executive Paul Everingham said the awards were a fantastic example of the great strides companies had taken to improve diversity and provide opportunities to enable employees to maximise their talents.

“During my many visits to our mining and energy member company sites, I have met many successful women in leadership, in a wide range of roles, who are excelling in their chosen field and paving the way for the next generation of female leaders.

“It is through the creation of diverse and inclusive workplaces we will deliver strong economic growth and improved social outcomes for the community.

“I congratulate this year’s nominees and winners, who should be extremely proud of their incredible efforts and can look forward to a long and rewarding career in the resources sector.”

Alcoa was recently named an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality for the 17th year running by the Federal Government’s Workplace Gender Equality Agency. The company’s leadership is committed to achieving a gender balance and creating an inclusive workplace through flexible work practices and active campaigns to attract, promote and retain women in its workforce.

ENDS

Media contacts:

• Sonia Nolan, Senior Communications Adviser, 0401 034 103, sonia.nolan@alcoa.com.au
• Jane McGuire, Senior Communications Adviser, 0410 694 676, jane.mcguire@alcoa.com.au