As part of International Women’s Day which took place on 8 March we reached out to our community to gather thoughts on how we can #AccelerateAction in the photonics sector.
As we take the time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in this field, it’s vital we continue to champion inclusivity, support diversity, and ensure equal opportunities for all.
Check out part two of what our community shared with us below.
Sarah McCarthy, PhD student
Fraunhofer UK & University of Strathclyde
“Focus on more than only visibly increasing diversity but also looking at the hidden barriers people may have, such as class, disabilities, neurodiversity, and care responsibilities. Ensuring all internships are paid removes a financial block for people wanting to gain access to the sector. Any accommodations should be universally provided, not only available when asked for.”
Kirsty Annand, Head of PGR Enhancement and Development
University of Strathclyde
“I believe that there is much that we can (and indeed should) collectively do to market our sector as thriving, vibrant and collaborative. Targeted and sustained engagement highlighting the impact photonics will have in the wave of the next quantum revolution is imperative to broaden our talent pool, supporting the diversity of thought we will require from our future workforce.”
Stacey McDevitt, Senior Production Manager
Coherent
“Work with people currently working in the sector and find more ways to share their experiences with young people. Also, the sector should continue to identify areas for improvement and actively work to address these. Sometimes I think there is a lack of inclusion awareness, regular inclusion conversations should be encouraged and should include everyone.”
Bavishna Balagopal, Lead Photonics Engineer
Optos
“We must actively dismantle barriers inhibiting equal opportunities, recognition, and compensation for all individuals, regardless of gender and background. Only by doing so can we foster a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can contribute fully, creating a platform of equality to be proudly passed down to the next generation.”
