Ladies inspired to achieve by Green & Blacks entrepreneur at EA Technology sponsored NWWN Event

Over 120 women from over 30 different organisations joined forces in a day of networking, collaboration and development, hosted by the North West Women’s Network at Chester University’s Thornton Science Park.

The 17th May event, sponsored by EA Technology and Essar Stanlow, included a rich mix of presentations, workshops and discussion all aimed at improving professional development for women working in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) industries across the North West.

By empowering women with practical tools, tips and techniques and building a network of mutual support the NWWN aims to improve retention in the industry and create role models for the next generation. Only 12.8% of STEM professionals are female and there is an annual shortfall of 40,000 STEM skilled workers.

Keynote speaker of the event was Jo Fairley, co-founder of leading chocolate brand Green & Black’s. Jo inspired the delegates with her rollercoaster business story and lessons that she learned along the way. Top tips for the audience included constantly reinforcing the environment of possibility, and maintaining a focus on health of your own body and mind before managing others’.

Elaine Meskhi, of EA Technology and the NWWN opened the event with an inspirational welcome. She commented: “The event was designed as an opportunity for women across the North West working in STEM industries to come together for a day of learning and development. There are many challenges facing women in industry, and investing time together as a group encourages collaboration and sharing ideas on personal and professional development.”

Delegates threw themselves into discussion and exercises around the themes of mentoring and career progression, as well as quizzing a panel of STEM leaders from the North West in a Q&A session.

For more information, and for news on future events follow @NWWN_ on twitter