Notice Board
The Importance of Inclusion and Diversity in the Locksmithing Industry
In a world where you can be anything , be someone who uses your voice to make a difference . This sentiment resonates strongly within locksmithing , where we have a responsibility to actively inspire inclusion and diversity .
» MICHELLE SUTTON , SENIOR Technical and Internal Sales Administrator of Mul-T-Lock UK , provides insight into her ambitions to spearhead a new campaign to improve equality in the industry . Ladies Who Locksmith seeks to spotlight trailblazing women , inspire others to pursue careers in locksmithing and break down barriers in traditionally male-dominated professions .
Across the security industry , it remains male-dominated and adheres to traditional outlooks . This pervasive culture can be tackled by celebrating the contribution that women are making and inspiring the next generation .
When it comes to promoting equality and elevating the voices of women in settings where they are underrepresented , we must do more than “ talk the talk ” – we also need to “ walk the walk .”
There is progress towards balanced representation , as seen in initiatives like the Master Locksmith Association ’ s Women in Locksmithing , celebrating and raising awareness of the fantastic women in our industry and the difference they make .
The skills gap presents a real challenge across security , technology , engineering , manufacturing , etc , so we must hire from the whole talent pool , regardless of gender ( or indeed any other identities / characteristics ).
Driving Inclusion
I am committed to growing with my team and our business and using my position and leadership to drive inclusion and innovation in our world of physical security technology .
Part of that vision is to arrive at a place where it is no longer novel to have a woman appointed to a locksmith or even a leadership role so that we can focus on more important things than gender . And I do believe we ’ re starting to see that paradigm shift .
For starters , Mul-T-Lock , as well as several customers and competitors with whom I have close professional relationships , has always had a humanist approach at the centre of its vision . This translates to our focus on our employees , our product development , our supply chain , our partnerships with professional locksmiths – in absolutely everything we do .
In this respect , it is the focus on a chosen career and hard work to achieve results . This is something I am immensely proud of working towards , and in doing so , pioneered the Ladies Who Locksmith campaign .
Seeing the women who have participated thus far is fantastic . The likes of Hazel Oakley , a locksmith at Gloucester Locksmiths with seven years of experience . Sharing her experience , she said : “ I love being a locksmith and have gained insights into the industry over the years . Every day brings different projects and the constant opportunity to learn the intricacies of high-security locks , using what I have learnt into practice to offer support and guidance to those wanting a more secure environment .
“ It ’ s encouraging to see Mul-T-Lock launch this campaign and I was happy to be involved . I think it ’ s critical to acknowledge and pay attention to the achievements made by women just like myself . I have always been treated equally and would encourage more ladies to join this rewarding profession to make a real difference .”
So What Has Changed ?
What is lovely about this response is the acceptance of being a woman when it seems like every other seat at the proverbial table is filled by a man .
Others have written about the nuances of being a so-called “ woman in a man ’ s world .” Something Laura Oakley , owner of Oakley Locksmiths knows all about in her 19 years in the industry .
As Laura says : “ Every lock is different , and in our world , we are seen as the fifth emergency service . But within this , being focused on empathy , we must offer support and advice when needed to find the best locking solution . Whilst it may seem ‘ soft ’ or ‘ too sensitive ’ to answer even the most basic of questions , it has drawn our customers in to speak to a woman who understands , shows no judgment and is always happy to help .
“ This ideal is something shared by another leader I admire , the former Prime Minister of New Zealand , Jacinda Arden . She talks of being “ proudly focused on empathy because you can be both empathetic and strong .” These are two qualities that some people still believe can ’ t co-exist in a leader – and empathy , in particular , is something that some female leaders are afraid to exhibit .”
Here , Laura ’ s journey and her ability to balance empathy and strength are truly inspiring .
Embracing Working Together
The importance of collaboration cannot be overstated to make this a true reality in our industry . By embracing teamwork and fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued , we can drive innovation and excellence with authenticity and integrity .
12
JUNE 2024
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