EDITOR’S NOTE

CLEARING

THE PATH

The ratio of men to women in the green industry hovers around 9:1, depending on which source you consult.

There is no doubt that the green industry has made some progress in its inclusion of female employees and leaders over the past several years, but I’d venture to say that there is still a lot more work that can be done.

I have talked a lot in my last few columns about getting out of my comfort zone, especially when I first started reporting on the green industry—I am a female in a very male-dominated field.

While I have grown more accustomed to being one of a few women in rooms full of men, I’m still aware that I stand out.

I’m sure many of this year’s winners of Green Industry Pros’ inaugural Women in the Green Industry Award have felt the same at one point or another in their careers, whether they’re attending a trade show, out talking to customers or even leading an all-staff meting at their own companies.

In fact, this year’s winner, Linda Nelson, president of Greenscapes, spoke on exactly that topic and shared ways in which the industry can make strides to add more women into that room full of men. You can find that story on p. 10 and a full list of this year’s winners on p. 12. For nearly every story I write, I’m told by sources that the green industry is struggling with labor, despite it being a viable and fulfilling career path. Why not fill that labor gap with more female employees?

And for those women already thriving in the industry, why not encourage other women that they can do the same?

Linda Nelson said it best when she stated: “Many great women have cleared the path for us, and it’s our responsibility to make sure that no weeds grow in that path and that it stays clear so we can get other women to keep pushing forward.”

So, what strategies is your company implementing to clear that path and add more women into the ranks? I’d love to hear them—and I’m sure your fellow readers would to. Email your ideas to swebb@acbusinessmedia.com or connect with me on LinkedIn.

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