We celebrate International Women’s Day this year by honouring the success and achievements of women across the Ascent business. And these are only a fraction of the amazing women at Ascent who bring a wide range of skills, backgrounds and careers to our business, enabling us to succeed and grow our training mission.
Hayley, can you tell us a little bit about your background?
I am highly versatile Project Manager with over 10 years’ experience in implementing change, with 15 years in manufacturing within the aerospace and automotive industries. I started off in procurement and then transitioned into project management, spending four years in the security sector as a digital project manager, using digital technologies to transform existing traditional and non-digital business processes and services.
What attracted you to work at Ascent?
Ascent offers the opportunity to work in a flexible, fast-paced and evolving environment, where you have room to grow. It takes care of its employees and prides itself on having a friendly and respectful work culture. I feel that Ascent fosters a trusted and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong.
What does your role at Ascent entail?
As a Capability Delivery Project Manager within Ascent, I am responsible for change projects through our stage gate process. These improve safety and enhance the technical capability and training efficiency of the UK’s Military Flying Training Systems for Fixed Wing and Fast Jet aircraft.
My duties include planning, proposal and solution development, delegating tasks, executing and supervising projects to meet management’s strategic objectives and to ensure project delivery within budget and on time.
What should the defence industry be doing to attract more women?
Fostering a cultural shift is imperative. Leaders must actively promote inclusive practices, challenge stereotypes, and create an environment where diversity is celebrated. Inclusive leadership is not just about creating a fair workplace but is also crucial for enhancing organisational performance.
“Leaders must actively promote inclusive practices, challenge stereotypes, and create an environment where diversity is celebrated.“
Developing mentorship and networking initiatives is essential to facilitate the growth of women professionals in the defence industry. Enabling access to mentors, regardless of gender, can furnish direction, encouragement, and prospects for career progression. Networking programs can aid women in establishing valuable contacts and broadening their areas of influence.
Addressing gender biases through education and awareness initiatives is also essential.
What issues for women in the wider defence industry could we/are we tackling at Ascent?
The reality of male-dominated industries, especially in defence, requires women to assert themselves and advocate their professional value and, where appropriate, commit to the “silencing” of male-based development strategies. Therefore, focus should be applied on purpose-driven roles, flexibility and inclusive leadership.
What advice would you give to other women who are thinking about doing a job like yours?
Be confident in your abilities – you were hired for a reason and your unique perspective is valuable and will have a meaningful impact.
Do you have a female role model?
Yes, Helen Gardiner (Ascent’s Fixed Wing Principal Training Design Manager). She’s awesome!
What do you enjoy most about working at Ascent?
The people – we are a safe and inclusive team that values empowerment, accountability, integrity, courage, and collaborative working.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Exercise by taking my dogs on long walks and exploring the countryside.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
Celebrating the achievements and contributions of women to society, as well as raising awareness about the challenges and issues that women continue to face.
