The inaugural HVIA Women’s Network Connections Program is off to a strong start with first and second matches now sent.
The program features 40 men and women from the heavy vehicle industry who are keen to make new industry connections outside of their workplaces. The concept was to be a punchier, modern and high-impact version of traditional mentoring but with a twist, where participants learn and grow from one another on equal footing, and are not limited to just one match.
The pilot, which was launched in August this year, aimed to send through three connections in three months. The connections are sent via email, and participants have the option to catch up either via Microsoft Teams or in person depending on their location and availability.
HVIA has had positive feedback on the program with many new connections made. At the conclusion of the program, there will be at least 60 new connections which we hope will thrive and grow to create stronger networks within our industry and hence a stronger industry.
The program is 90 per cent female but is not at all limited to gender. If you would like to opt in to the last month of connections, there is still room for a few more, just email r.michaud@hvia.asn.au and we can add you in to the November pool.
Some comments from participants include:
“The HVIA Women’s Connection Program has been an incredibly valuable initiative for building meaningful professional connections and expanding networks across the automotive and heavy vehicle industries. Through just two meetings, I have extended my women’s professional network by seven new connections, with several leading to further introductions and opportunities to engage with women across the sector.”
Emma Burgess-Anderson, AUSMASA
“I have met up with my first connections, and we had a great conversation about the industry, compliance, training, family and other topics. We shared similar views but had different backgrounds so the point of view varied. The introduction process is simple and leaves the decision making to the participants which is good as we are all busy people. The variety of roles the participants hold brings a great knowledge and experience pool. It can only be a win-win for anyone who wants to take part.”
Leanne Ellis, Wagners
“In an industry where our increasingly office-based roles are performed, the Women’s Network Connections Program has been a great platform for me to cross paths with similarly minded successful and impressive women in the same industry. Whilst our subject matter work may not overlap, nor even job titles, there is so much knowledge to share, experience to learn from and sounding boards to raise discussion. I’ve been wowed at how much we have in common in terms of a shared passion for the transport industry, even if it is an industry we hadn’t planned on building a career in. The Network is something I’ve been hoping to find for many years, and I’m so grateful it is now up and running.”
Erin Burgess-Collins, Trail-Link
“I thoroughly enjoy participating in the Women’s Network Connections Program. It was fantastic to connect with a fellow industry colleague who shares many of the same perspectives and values. I’m really excited to see a program that creates opportunities for industry professionals passionate about supporting and encouraging women in transport to connect. Building these connections and sharing experiences is so valuable, and I look forward to seeing the program continue to grow.”
Jacinta Lane, Airtec Corporation