Envision, Microsoft’s Manufacturing Summit, took place a few weeks back and I meant to share a post about the “Women in Manufacturing” panel and lunch I attended. On the panel, hosted by Arpana Brahambhatt [Manufacturing Industry Expert, Microsoft], were Donna Warton [GM, Microsoft Devices Supply Chain, Microsoft], Melanie Cook [COO, GE Appliances, a Haier Company], Chandra Brown [CEO, MxO The Digital Manufacturing Institute], and Carolyn L [Executive Director, National Manufacturing Association]. My plan was to reflect on how much I loved hearing the ideas and collaboration across the speakers, and point out that it was really clear to identify common traits these leaders share. Some of the more personal characteristics I noticed were deep knowledge of the company’s and industries they each lead, clear metrics and answers to questions asked, with relevant data to support, and optimistic people-centric attitudes that were contagious.
Looking back, as we are in such a different place for our countries, industries, and businesses I’m proud to say that the organizations these same women are leading, are currently a part of the solution as we come together on our current COVID-19 pandemic. I want to thank all of the speakers we learned from on stage; experience leading teams and cultural transformations, and even more for now showing us corporate citizenship and what it means to be a part of something so much bigger than a “job”.
I’ve listed below, just a few of the ways these leader’s and organizations are making a difference:
Microsoft has an entire website set dedicated to supporting our global community on working remote, keeping students educated, local support, and technical support. Just this week, CEO Satya Nadella has partnered with other major tech companies, creating the COVID-19 High Performance Computing Consortium to provide COVID-19 researchers worldwide with access to the world’s most powerful high performance computing resources that can significantly advance the pace of scientific discovery in the fight to stop the virus.
GE Appliances, a Haier Company are adjusting their production to focus on critical products our country needs now. They’re also partnering with local organizations like One Louisville, the American Red Cross, and Seven Counties Services to support local needs. Two engineers at GE Appliances even teamed up to offer remote tutoring to a high school student preparing for his ACT exam!
The National Association of Manufacturers has created “COVID-19 Policy Action Plan Recommendations”, suggesting actions our government take to help enable manufacturers with their greater purpose: protecting our people and our communities”.
MxD also has a website dedicated to COVID-19 communication – from their mission, to upcoming webinars, and public request postings. They continue to be and provide resources for manufacturers and have adapted ways of engagement to virtual opportunities, keeping manufacturers able, educated, and well.
Panel Members: Donna Warton [GM, Microsoft Devices Supply Chain, Microsoft], Melanie Cook [COO, GE Appliances, a Haier Company], Chandra Brown [CEO, MxO The Digital Manufacturing Institute], and Carolyn L [Executive Director, National Manufacturing Association]
What examples of corporate citizenship are you impressed by? I’d love to hear more examples.
Better Together | A Working Blog 