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.
Naomi, can you tell us a little bit about your background?
After a career built in business development and account management and many years of living in a targeted sales environment predominantly in the waste recycling industry, I was given the opportunity to move into a Commercial role with Ascent. With no prior knowledge or experience of defence or the military, it has been three years of learning, in an extremely complex contract, but has been hugely rewarding to support Ascent in its diversification strategy.
What attracted you to work at Ascent?
Every day it is fulfilling to know that I am part of UKMFTS – and the passion that people have at Ascent for the frontline aircrew of the future was clear even at interview stage. I am excited to work with key stakeholders as we navigate opportunities outside of the core contract.
What does your role at Ascent entail?
While I am part of a team of Commercial Managers, my role is somewhat different to most in the business, as I mainly support our Business Development department with revenue growth opportunities. I have been privileged in providing commercial support to our sites to secure training to a variety of safety-critical businesses, from Search & Rescue, to Air Ambulance, and even the nuclear sector, which is testament to the diversity of training solutions that Ascent offers.
More recently, I have also been working with our Capability Delivery team. It has been eye opening to understand the volume of change in the system, and rewarding to work with internal and external stakeholders on a variety of valuable projects.
In addition, I have been privileged to be Project Manager for Ascent’s sponsorship at the Royal International Air Tattoo, for two years in a row. This prestigious event is recognised worldwide by the military community and again demonstrates the variety of projects and development opportunities across the business.
What should the defence industry be doing to attract more women?
I was somewhat naive to the perceived prejudices in the defence industry prior to my time at Ascent, as it was not something I had experienced. Ascent has a strong focus on Diversity Inclusion and Belonging and this should be recognised as important in all businesses, regardless of sector. There is a need for more female senior leaders in most industries and women should feel like they have a voice and a seat at the table. Mentoring and networking opportunities are invaluable in achieving this.
” Just because it has always been done like that, doesn’t mean it should, or has to be going forward!”
What issues for women in the wider defence industry could we/are we tackling at Ascent?
I think there will always be some bureaucracy and bias that needs to be navigated in the defence industry, whether you are a woman, a civilian, or in a different position to those that you have contact with. Having not worked in this environment previously, I think it is imperative we continue to work closely with our military counterparts to challenge perception and work together in an inclusive and diverse world. That’s where innovative and ground breaking solutions are created.
What advice would you give to other women who are thinking about doing a job like yours?
Defence needs more women who are confident in their own abilities and are not scared to ask questions. Believe in yourself and what you think is right. Just because it has always been done like that, doesn’t mean it should, or has to be going forward!
Do you have a female role model?
Every female pilot is a role model to me, as it is not something I could comprehend doing, and I am sure that many will have overcome obstacles and objections to get there. Of course, the male pilots are pretty awesome too!
I also have huge admiration for many brave women pioneers, such as Emmeline Pankhurst, political activist, and leader of the women’s suffrage movement. There’s a lot more work to be done, but equality and women’s rights would be far from where we are today, if it wasn’t for the courage of women like her.
What do you enjoy most about working at Ascent?
Hard work is noticed and recognised, whilst being able to work in a flexible environment, with the autonomy to work under my own direction. The variety of projects means that no two days are the same and it is rewarding to know that I have been instrumental in helping move Ascent into a business with multiple customers across a variety of industries.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
As a mother to two boys, when I am not a taxi to scouts, or pitch-side support for a U13’s football match early on a Saturday morning, I enjoy getting out with my two dogs, as I am fortunate to live on the coast, with the beach in walking distance.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day is an opportunity to recognise all achievements of women big and small. Women have continued to adapt to challenges and expectations of society for many years and it should be celebrated.
