International Women's Day 2021 - Erin Warner
2021’s International Woman’s day theme #ChoosetoChallenge has allowed me to draw parallels to my own career and how I have chosen to challenge change.
Unfortunately, a lot of people think that gender bias does not exist anymore, in my experience it does, and we are continuing to have conversations on bias and inequality for a reason. I am the only female in my studio, yet I do not find this abnormal. Being employed in the design and construction industry, which is very male-dominated, I’d be surprised if the roles were reversed.
Within the industry, the majority of my professional interactions are with male consultants and contractors. As a female in a senior position, I have experienced bias against me first hand - gendered assumptions largely based on my appearance as a short ‘young’ looking woman.
Comments made to me in client meetings requesting someone more senior to be present in the future because I looked too young, and being told that women take comments the wrong way, are two examples.
These remarks, although hurtful, have allowed me to focus on myself, a strong female, who will continue to advocate for and celebrate women’s achievements and challenge the industry to become more inclusive.
I am a female advocate for inclusivity and a champion of women’s empowerment in the design and construction industry. I am proudly involved with the Western Australian chapter of NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) as the Co-Chair of the Marketing and Communications committee.
Erin with NAWIC WA members
NAWIC was suggested to me by our only female director at the time as I had been using her as an unofficial mentor since starting at MODE. She put me forward to join in Perth as she thought it would be a great way for me to spread my wings and although I
was nervous at my first speed networking event everyone was so welcoming and encouraging. On a personal level NAWIC has boosted my confidence in ways I never knew it would, I wouldn’t be where I am in my career now without them and I have
not only been inspired at every event, met amazing new people, but also made
lifelong friends.
NAWIC is an empowering force with the goal of building a diverse and inclusive
industry, helping women reach their full potential. Based on my very positive experiences with the NAWIC Mentoring Program two years ago I have helped establish a mentoring program within MODE. I think everyone should have a mentor in their career for guidance and support and I look forward to providing guidance, advice, and awareness to both females and males stepping into the Architectural world, to pass on my knowledge to guide those who may face similar issues I have.
I #ChoosetoChallenge against those who think my gender and appearance have anything to do with my ability to do the job.
I #ChoosetoChallenge both men and women, to broaden their perspectives, take action to improve situations, and fight against gender stereotypes and bias so that we can all move towards an inclusive world where these conversations won’t be required.
ERIN WARNER, Associate Director