Satcom Direct Celebrates International Women’s Day
Aviation and High-Tech, two fields that traditionally see lower numbers of women representation. At Satcom Direct we believe that talent comes in all forms and are proud to have global representation. With this year’s International Women’s Day, we asked for their input:
The global theme for 2022 is “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”. What does this mean to you?
To me, this means it is our responsibility to pave the way. As women, our role in society has continuously changed. As we continue to step out of our designated box, we create a future that is sustainable for the next generation of women in the workforce. Even if you don’t feel like you are changing the landscape, you are! If you want the equality, you have to be the catalyst for change.
– Nikki Wouralis, Human Resources Manager, WHQ
Due to globalization much of what is done in one country directly affects another and nothing is so true as humans’ impact on the environment and the sustainment of the planet. We need everyone, male and female, to come together to use innovation which allows technological advances without impacting our environmental sustainability.
– Joanne Walker, General Manager Avionics, Canada
What advice would you give to the next generation
of young women looking for a career in aviation?
Do not let anyone tell you what you can and cannot do in Aviation. They used to tell me when I was a child at school that I could never be a Pilot and look at me now. I have my Private, Instrument, Commercial-multi engine pilot licenses. If you stand up for your dreams and hold on you can make it happen by putting in your heart and soul. If you can Dream it, you can make anything happen!– Myrthe Van Noetsele, Business Analyst, WHQ
I probably would offer young women two pieces of advice: 1) Get experience in anything and everything. It’s so important to find out what you like and don’t like in terms of your career. If you have to spend the majority of your life doing something, make sure it’s something you love. If you’re passionate about it, you’ll do the job better than anyone else. 2) Find a mentor early on in your career, a mentor is an invaluable resource that far too many either take for granted or choose not to have.
– Natalia Hernandez-Pryszlak, Software Product Manager, WHQ
What has your role at SD meant to
you from a development standpoint?
I have always had the freedom here at SD to control my future. If I wanted to learn more and take additional training, I have had the ability to do so, I just need to push myself.
– Nikki Smith, Senior Director FP&A and Treasury
My role at SD has allowed me to develop my professional aviation career, both from a technical and business perspective but also gaining experience from a personal development point of view. I am lucky to work with colleagues who I admire and from who I learn every day.
-Anna Montanuy, Director of Business Development Europe, Switzerlan
From a development standpoint, my role empowers me to make important choices and gives me an equal standing with my peers. My manager has always supported me to make this role a success.
– Maureen Needham, Operations Director, Canada
Is there a woman in your life that you look up to,
has mentored you, or has helped you in your success?
I am very lucky to have a lot of mentors in my life but when it comes to someone that has mentored me the most, that person is my mother. She has always been there for me and gives unconditional support to guide me. When she was small, her family was very poor and because of that she is the most hardworking person I’ve ever met. From the time when I was in school, she taught me to explore things and pushed me in front to deal with matters instead of hiding at her back. She encouraged me to strengthen myself by joining different volunteer groups. When I started my first job, she guided me on how to see opportunities so that I won’t give up easily, how to be an honest person, and how to build up confidence from my experiences. When I deal with people, she taught me to stay polite to everyone, and to show respect equally. Today, many of my learned behaviors are influenced by my mother. I hope I can influence my son in the same way.
– Cindy Chan, Business Operations and Planning Manager, Hong Kong
