IWD 2025: Accelerate Action by building bridges

This year’s IWD theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ speaks of the urgency of creating real and lasting change. In this quoticle, leaders from across STEM sectors share their perspectives on what still needs to be done, the importance of mentorship, and how creating diverse workplaces drives innovation and growth.

Nichola Bates, Managing Partner at Aerospace Xelerated & Head of Global Accelerators and Innovation Programs, at Boeing:

“At a time when initiatives and policies protecting women’s rights are facing setbacks, it is more important than ever to stand firm. Ensuring gender equality isn’t just about fairness – it’s about protecting hard-won progress and building a future where no one is left behind. The economic and social benefits of gender equality are undeniable. When more women work, economies grow – it is estimated that closing the gender gap could give the global economy a $7 trillion boost. However, with women still earning less than men on average and shouldering more unpaid care work, progress remains stalled. We must use International Women’s Day as a rallying point to reinforce commitments, drive systemic change, and ensure that no girl grows up in a world where her rights are an afterthought.”

Catherine Ramsdale, SVP Technology, Pragmatic Semiconductor:

“International Women’s Day is not just about recognition – it’s about action. While significant progress has been made in increasing the representation of women in technology, there’s still so much to do to break down barriers and create more opportunity.  

“At Pragmatic Semiconductor, we know that diverse teams drive better innovation. We have a significantly higher percentage of female employees than the industry average. And our Women in Leadership programme – designed to empower women at all stages of their careers – aims to ensure that everyone can reach their full potential. 

“But ‘Accelerating Action’ – this year’s theme – doesn’t only apply to the workplace. Outreach activities within primary and secondary education, before young people make decisions about their study pathways, are vital. We need to spark interest in STEM subjects, deepening awareness of possible career options at a young age and ensuring that interest is sustained throughout the school years and beyond.  

“By actively supporting women in technology and engineering careers – from classroom to boardroom – we can build a generation of leaders with the collective power to address urgent global challenges, and a stronger, more inclusive future.” 

Laura Lancaster Vice President of EV Networks & Partnerships, Corpay: 

“My career has been inspired by great people that earn their colleagues’ respect and cultivate a culture in which you are driven to go the extra mile. It has been built up on the premise of celebrating what you bring to the table as an individual with your unique set of experiences and viewpoints.”

“I’ve been very lucky in that I haven’t had any barriers that I’ve experienced because I am a woman. At the same time, however, I have found that, because my industry is typically male dominated, there aren’t always examples of female mentors or leaders for me to look up to.”

“That’s why it’s so important that we make sure our workforce is made up of a diverse group of people who are able to share a wide range of perspectives. I’m delighted to be working alongside a team that is 50/50 gender split but is also made up of a range of nationalities and ages. Together we’re able to consult and bring many different qualities to the table that make us extremely well rounded as we approach our work.”

“This includes different personality types; I’ve always been inspired by powerful women that aren’t drawn to the limelight but lead with grace, like Michelle Obama. I admire those that are the driving force in the background while contributing to the greater machine that is driving change and progress. It is my long-held belief therefore that creating a work environment where we are not judged on our gender but welcomed because of all the things we bring to the table is the only true way to accelerate change.”

Elizabeth Caffey Blackman, CMO, Avantra:

“International Women’s Day is more than a celebration, it’s a call to action. While progress has been made, there’s still work to do, especially in the tech industry, where women account for only 25% of the workforce.

"Diversity in leadership isn’t just about inclusion – it’s about driving better ideas, stronger teams, and real innovation. When we elevate diverse voices, we create workplaces that allow everyone to thrive. As leaders, we must break barriers, champion each other, and foster environments where all perspectives are valued.

"This isn’t just about today – it’s about shaping a future where women are empowered to lead, innovate, and inspire the next generation.”

Melissa Puls, Senior Vice President Customer Success & Renewals:

“Often, our own assumptions about our abilities can hold us back from professional growth more than any external obstacle or lack of opportunity. We should question and challenge these invisible barriers that we have internalised to redefine what our potential for success truly is. Success is not about conforming to traditional roles but about pushing past perceived limitations and embracing new ways of leading. International Women's Day serves as a reminder to break free from these artificial ceilings. To accelerate action, it is up to us to create opportunities not only for ourselves but also for those who come after us. The key is to recognise that the boundaries we see may not be real at all but constructs we have the power to dismantle. When we stop accepting artificial ceilings, we open doors to greater impact, innovation, and fulfillment, both for ourselves and the people we inspire along the way.”

Brooke Johnson, Chief Legal Counsel, Senior Vice President of Security & Human Resource:

“This International Women's Day serves as a call to action to prioritise the advancement of women's career paths and goal-setting for equal opportunities, while recognising the value of guidance and mentorship from experienced individuals. From my personal experience, mentors have greatly influenced my professional growth throughout my career. Now, I am in a position to return the favor by mentoring others. It's a domino effect where each woman who achieves success can, and should, help empower the next.”

Liz Blackman, CMO, Avantra:

“International Women’s Day is more than a celebration, it’s a call to action. While progress has been made, there’s still work to do, especially in the tech industry, where women account for only 25% of the workforce.

"Diversity in leadership isn’t just about inclusion – it’s about driving better ideas, stronger teams, and real innovation. When we elevate diverse voices, we create workplaces that allow everyone to thrive. As leaders, we must break barriers, champion each other, and foster environments where all perspectives are valued.

This isn’t just about today – it’s about shaping a future where women are empowered to lead, innovate, and inspire the next generation.”

Debra McCowan, CHRO, IFS:

"Innovation in AI and emerging technologies isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about leading the charge. We must do more than acknowledge progress, we must accelerate it. True transformation demands action, not just intention. It requires bold leadership, diverse voices, and unwavering commitment to ensure momentum isn’t lost. As businesses navigate rapid change and evolving skill demands, empowering women isn’t optional, it’s essential. When we invest in their growth, we unlock the full potential of our workforce, fuel innovation, and create a future that is both equitable and extraordinary.”