A diverse and inclusive workplace drives innovation and creates a culture where everyone feels empowered to contribute. At UGL, this commitment is reflected in the actions of our people, with many stepping forward to join the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Male Allies Program, designed to equip men with the tools to actively support and advocate for gender equality and inclusion.
UGL Operations Manager, Andrew Williams joined the program after hearing about it from UGL Senior People and Culture Business Partner, Rochelle Richardson.
"I've worked in male-dominated industries for 25 years, from mining and services to engineering and construction,” said Andrew. “As a father to a daughter, I believe we need strong male role models to champion women and create opportunities for them to succeed.”
Through the program, Andrew learned more about the unconscious biases that may hinder women's progress in the workplace and the steps leaders can take to address systemic challenges.
"It’s often a cultural issue. People tend to resonate with those similar to themselves,” said Andrew. “That unconscious bias can lead to blind spots, where male leaders might overlook the perspectives, ideas, and talents that women bring.” Andrew emphasised the importance of calling out unconscious behaviour, both in others and in oneself.
Practical lessons for change
One of the most impactful takeaways for Andrew was the importance of deliberate actions to foster inclusivity. He highlighted the value of:
- Providing mentorship and work shadowing opportunities to give women experience in leadership roles.
- Maintaining an inclusive hiring process that ensures female candidates receive fair consideration.
- Adjusting workplace environments, such as facilities or role designs, to make them more accommodating for women.
“Simple actions like reviewing job descriptions with diversity in mind, or calling out when a great idea from a female colleague goes unrecognised, can make a world of difference,” he said.
Andrew noted that while achieving gender equity in male-dominated industries won’t happen overnight, patience and intentional effort are essential.
“Sometimes candidates or team members haven’t been offered the same opportunities as others. Investing time in their development pays off in the long run - for the business and the individual.”
For those considering joining the Male Allies Program, Andrew’s message is simple: "It’s worth the time. The program consists of five 30-minute modules, that you can work through at your own pace. It’s a small investment for long-term benefits, helping you build a more diverse and equitable team. Diverse voices lead to better decisions and ideas, and ultimately, better outcomes for everyone."
As UGL continues its journey towards a more inclusive workplace, Andrew’s and others' participation in the NAWIC Male Allies Program sets the stage for a brighter, more diverse future.