In 2021 , women comprised 14.7 percent of Boeing ’ s production and maintenance workforce in the U . S ., an increase from 12.8 percent in 2020 . But the statistics show huge opportunities for growth as Boeing continues to recruit talent in critical skill areas , including mechanics and other production employees .
Khaytlen Hahn , a fabrication manufacturing manager for Commercial Airplanes in Auburn , Washington , is committed to helping more women join Boeing ’ s manufacturing team . She regularly joins hiring panels for mechanic roles and participates in recruiting events in the Puget Sound area — where she often collaborates with McWilliams .
“ Boeing understands the importance of having a diverse interview panel and candidate slate ,” Hahn said .
This year , Boeing added a performance metric to the 2022 Boeing annual incentive approach that is designed to reward open and equitable talent selections . The company set enterprise-wide targets to ensure at least 90 percent of its manager and executive interview slates are diverse , and that it reduces the percentage of direct placements for all manager and executive jobs .
“ Often we think we know who the best candidate is , until we interview others ,” Hahn said . “ Traits like determination and growth mindset don ’ t come through on a resume , but are so important to being a successful manager .”
Erica Witthaus ( left ), fulfillment senior leader for commercial airplanes fabrication in Auburn , Washington , led the effort for Boeing to join the Women in Manufacturing organization . Here she is pictured at a Hispanic Heritage event at the Auburn site . ( Khaytlen Hahn photo )
Similarly , Hahn said , having women and minority teammates represent Boeing at recruiting events and greeting candidates has been successful . “ I ’ ve observed how it has brought people in , and made to feel a sense of hope that they can transition into this company , by seeing someone that looks like them ,” she said .
To further support the increase of women joining production teams , Boeing has joined the Women in Manufacturing ( WiM ) organization . Chapters are being set up across Boeing production sites , said Erica Witthaus , fulfillment senior leader for Commercial Airplanes Fabrication in Auburn , Washington , who is leading the effort .
Boeing is also working to empower women once they have joined the company .
Khaytlen Hahn ( second from left ), a fabrication manufacturing manager for Commercial Airplanes in Auburn , Washington , regularly joins hiring panels for mechanic roles and participates in recruiting events in the Puget Sound area . She recently attended a Women in Manufacturing Summit in Atlanta , Georgia with teammates ( from left ) Thi Anh Ngo , Linda Sok , Lavelle Rogers and Jessica Gonzales .
FEBRUARY | MARCH 2023 ISSUE NO . 31 19