In the world of engineering and geoscience, fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture is essential not only for business success but also for the well-being of employees. The recent “Women in the Workplace: A Shift in Industry Work Culture” report by APEGA sheds light on the challenges women, and likely others, face within engineering and geoscience professions. It highlights issues related to workplace culture, gender-based discrimination, career development, and more.

The Toxic Culture Challenge

A toxic culture can manifest in many ways. It may include hostility, discrimination, harassment, and a lack of inclusivity. As we’ve seen in the report, this culture affects engineers across the gender spectrum. Here’s a closer look at the impact:

• Career Development and Advancement: Engineering and geoscience businesses often hire women at the entry level, but promotion rates don’t reflect equal opportunities. This disparity limits women’s later participation in professional and managerial roles, stifling their career growth.

 

• Bias, Discrimination, and Harassment: Gender-based discrimination is a pressing issue. A significant percentage of female engineers and geoscientists have experienced it, creating an environment where engineers and geoscientists are not treated equitably.

 

• Maternity and Parental Leave: Issues related to maternity and parental leave, like returning to the same role or facing career progression implications, can deter women engineers and geoscientists from pursuing leadership roles.

 

• Workplace Environment: The report highlights that there are different perceptions of gender’s influence on workplace treatment. Ensuring equal treatment for all employees, regardless of gender, is crucial.

 

A Solution: Respect in the Workplace Program

One solution to counteract the effects of a toxic culture in engineering and geoscience organizations is the “Respect in the Workplace” program. This program aims to foster a culture of respect, eliminate bullying, abuse, harassment, and discrimination, and create a more inclusive environment by educating people and addressing bias and discrimination issues. It offers key benefits:

• Cultural Transformation: Engineers and geoscientists can learn to embrace respect as a core value within their organizations, promoting a healthier workplace culture.

 

• Professional Development: The program equips engineers and geoscientists with communication and conflict resolution skills, making them effective leaders and contributors.

 

• Inclusivity: The focus on inclusivity and diversity helps ensure that every voice is heard and valued.

 

Collaborative Solutions

Addressing these issues requires a collective effort from engineers and geoscientists, employers, and organizations. While our “Respect in the Workplace” program is an important first step forward, we recognize that it’s not the only path to positive change. Here are some collaborative approaches:

• Mentoring and Sponsorship Programs: Engineering and Geoscience businesses can establish mentorship programs to support the career development of underrepresented groups and create pathways for advancement.

 

• Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Employers can proactively foster inclusivity by implementing policies and practices that promote diversity and equal opportunities for all.

 

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Flexible work options can accommodate employees’ needs, including maternity and parental leave, promoting work-life balance.

 

• Collective Awareness: Promote dialogue and discussions within the engineering and Geoscience community to raise awareness about workplace culture issues and work towards collective change.

 

Act Now

The impact of a toxic culture on engineering and Geoscience businesses and their employees is clear, and the need for change is urgent. By taking action through programs like “Respect in the Workplace,” engineering organizations can foster a positive atmosphere that promotes productivity, engagement, and employee retention where engineers and geoscientists of all backgrounds thrive and contribute to their full potential. Let’s work together to build a more respectful, inclusive, and equitable engineering and geoscience community.