Tell us about Duperon Corporation
Duperon Corporation is the leader in innovative preliminary liquid/solids separation systems. For more than 35 years, Duperon has provided simple yet innovative solutions for a variety of screening and solids handling applications in the water and wastewater industry. Duperon technologies are designed and manufactured in Saginaw, Michigan.
What inspired you to join the water/wastewater sector and tell us about your current role?
I love the possibility of business as a force for good, period. The sector of water/wastewater is perfect for aligning the type of difference we want to make in the world as we service those who are stewards of water and wastewater.
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?
Yes and no. Yes as we see that women are moving in great numbers into engineering and technical roles, as well as into leadership and business ownership. These women are credible, passionate and effective. However, we need to see more women in executive leadership roles within major consulting, contracting and manufacturing. The time for this is clear as we represent such a large percentage of the workforce and as business cultures are moving toward a more feminine/masculine balance. With the current labor shortage, attrition of baby boomers and a younger generation that passionately cares (and is more accustomed to diversity than any generation before us), conditions are perfect for attracting not only women but men and women of diverse backgrounds. It is important that companies transform themselves into cultures and environments, not as a growth opportunity across many ‘faces’, but as an environment that nurtures development.
What are the benefits of having a clear diversity, equity, and inclusion company policy?
Our answer may be a little unorthodox, as well as our culture itself. We look for people who share the value of making a difference, rather than looking for the differences in people. By this I mean we encourage each person to be themselves so that they are celebrated for the gifts and dreams that they bring. We see each other through a lens of caring and genuine interest in the authenticity of our best selves. We are not challenging ourselves to find ways that we are different, rather acknowledging that any way we are made is worthy of dignity, respect and value in making a difference. We are not ignorant of the ways we limit ourselves or the limitations others place on our capabilities. Yet once we have aligned values, all facing the same direction, it opens the door to a world of possibilities.
What steps are you taking to encourage women’s growth within Duperon Corporation?
Women’s presence permeates all areas of our business, and we open growth opportunities to all equally. In my experience, the key to the growth and development of women team members is to overcome the cultural limitations of what it means to take on these opportunities. We oftentimes feel like we have to be ‘something else’ or singular in what we care about (the cost of patriarchy I believe for both men and women). There’s this notion we can be straight in our communications in a way that works, and we somehow cannot be powerful in all areas of our life. But as I like to say, “Powerful women figure out how to make life work.’ If, as a woman, we feel disenfranchised in our role in an organization, first look to what we might be doing that is getting in our way. Sometimes we fall back to being a ____ (fill in the blank) as the why, when in actuality there is something else that is sabotaging opportunity, of which WE have control. We need to check in with a trusted mentor or friend to see if we are diluting our power in some way. If still disenfranchised, and trust cannot be created, there are a lot of teams looking for good people. Let them know in the exit interview to make a better path for others.
What are your hopes for the future of women in the water/wastewater sector?
There is no doubt for me that women will continue to grow at every level in our water and wastewater facilities, consulting firms, contracting and solution providers. The earth, and water, in particular, needs good stewards. My hope is that women – and people of all walks of life – see that as both an opportunity and a privilege.
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