A new group to aid the professional development of women in the battery industry was announced during the annual BCI Battery Council International (BCI) Convention + Power Mart.
The Women in the Global Battery Industry group aims to help women further their own careers while building relationships within the industry to further their companies’ goals.
Membership is open to professionals in the global battery industry who are seeking to develop all aspects of their career.
The group’s vice-chair is Virginia Archibald, chief financial officer of Surette Battery, a manufacturer of deep cycle batteries for use in renewable energy, marine, motive power and railroad applications.
Julie McClure (pictured), the chairman of lead battery equipment manufacturing firm MAC Engineering, is the first chair of the new group
She said: “As a second generation professional in the battery industry, I know how valuable relationships are in building leadership skills to serve in executive positions within the industry, especially in one that is a traditionally male enterprise.
“Through the networking, professional growth, education and mentorship opportunities we will offer, I am excited to increase the number of C-suite executives in our growing industry.”
The formation of the group is supported by BCI Board of Directors and its president, Chris Pruitt.
Pruitt, who is also CEO and president of East Penn Manufacturing, said: “I’ve seen within my own company the power of diverse points of view from an inclusive workforce. This is such a great opportunity for the battery industry to further promote the growth of women within our leadership ranks, and I’m proud to be a part of today’s announcement.”
The steering committee that was instrumental in launching the initiative included: Virginia Archibald, Surrette Battery; Melissa Floyd, Stryten; Claudia Lorenzini, Microporous; Ellen Maxey, Clarios; Maria Roma, Advanced Battery Concepts; Sheila Ryles, Teck Metals; Donna Snyder, East Penn Manufacturing; Tammy Stankey, The Doe Run Company; Emma Thacker, EnerSys; and Pam O’Brien, BCI.
