For the final day of our Women in Water Feature, we spoke to Khatera Hazin, Director of R&D at CarboNet about the work CarboNet does in transforming water treatment
Tell us about CarboNet?
CarboNet is a specialty chemicals company focused on water treatment, remediation, and recycling. Our novel approach, using drug delivery methods, serves as the technical backbone for a suite of products with enhanced ability to target and control molecules in water.
With emerging global water scarcity, CarboNet is focused on helping producers recycle treated water used in fracking, mining, or industrial wastewater for reuse with chemicals with greater efficacy and performance.
What inspired you to join the water/wastewater sector and tell us about your current role?
My Ph.D. work focused on polymer chemistry and I was intrigued by the idea of using polymers to remove contaminants from wastewater. As the Director of R&D, I oversee the research and development activities at CarboNet to foster a more efficient, low-cost, and sustainable water treatment process.
Do you feel that women are adequately represented in the water industry? If not, what are some of the ways we can make the workforce more representative?
In general, there are still areas of improvement for establishing adequate industry representation. At CarboNet, we’re very proud to run a lab where half of the innovation team comprises female scientists and engineers. Also, 40% of our PhDs are women. Our field operations haven’t quite reached the same level of balance, however, we’re continually exploring ways to make our workforce more representative.
What are the benefits of having a clear diversity, equity, and inclusion company policy?
Having a diverse range of experience and perspectives on our team, especially in such a technical environment, has proven beneficial. Celebrating and valuing these differences ultimately leads to a level of innovation that you wouldn’t find otherwise. While we haven’t formalized a diversity, equity, and inclusion policy, it is always top of mind and we recognize the need for one as CarboNet grows. In the meantime, we are involved in groups and initiatives that promote women in various areas, including STEM, entrepreneurship, and venture equity. Our leaders are active participants with organizations—such as SCWIST (Society for Canadian Women in Science & Technology), The Forum, and Women’s Equity Lab—that support these endeavors.
Do you feel encouraged to grow as a woman within CarboNet?
The culture at CarboNet is naturally supportive and concerned with ensuring that all voices are heard. It’s widely encouraged to openly share opinions, ask tough questions, and respect diverse perspectives. This ingrained mindset is combined with a concerted effort at keeping employees engaged across the entire company. There’s a high-growth mentality across the organization and this includes the women on the team.
What are your hopes for the future of women in the water/wastewater sector?
It has been encouraging to see the spotlight on women in the industry—I’d love to continue seeing more of these stories highlighted. To be better representative, I believe there needs to be more women, and not just in the lab or in technical roles. We are fortunate to be led by a team that includes Amielle Lake, a female Chief Commercial Officer. Headway in the industry will come more naturally as more women enter the C-suite. In general, being aware of any potential gender wage gap will also help in ensuring the retention of and growth of women as leaders in the future.
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