Last week, we proudly celebrated a stellar year for GMC’s Women in Manufacturing Network (WIMN) alongside our participants, alumni, and supporters. This vibrant community continues to pave the way for greater inclusion and leadership opportunities for women in manufacturing across regional Victoria.
Through initiatives like structured mentoring, engaging girls in STEM, professional development, and dynamic networking events, WIMN is making real strides. The event was filled with inspiring stories, fresh ideas, and a shared commitment to advancing gender diversity in the industry.
As many attendees noted, WIMN is not just a network – it’s a vital driver of talent retention and part of a solution to the skills shortages challenging our sector.
This year, WIMN expanded its reach significantly. The 2024 Mentoring Program launched a new cohort in Ballarat through our Seed2STEM initiative and offered scholarships for high-level professional development. Looking ahead, we’re gearing up to bring the mentoring program to Bendigo in 2025. By then, we’ll be empowering up to 50 women annually to excel in their manufacturing careers.
Another exciting development is our BIG IDEAS program. This initiative will provide manufacturing leaders with a practical resource library, with case studies, templates, and tools to foster workplace diversity and attract ‘the other 50 per cent’ of the workforce.
The achievements of WIMN underscore the importance of collaboration and community in shaping a stronger, more diverse manufacturing future. Together, we’re not just supporting women in the industry – we’re transforming it.
Here’s to an even bigger and better year ahead!
Seed2STEM received support from the Australian Government. BIG IDEAS received support from the Victorian Government