German auto component manufacturer Continental has launched a skilling programme, “Women for Manufacturing,” to empower and support women to take up a career in manufacturing.
Manufacturing has been historically stereotyped as unsuitable for women, and over the years, resulted in an under-representation of women in this field.
Continental’s programme aims to nurture and inspire girls and women to better understand this industry, access resources and learning, and consider manufacturing as a career option.
Centum Foundation, Continental’s NGO partner for this programme, will be the implementation partner for this multi-year programme that will eventually build a sustainable model of skill development, empowerment, guidance, and placement support that would help more women find a place in manufacturing, ultimately benefitting the sector and contributing to the greater good of the society.
Rainer Hetzer, Head of Human Relations, Autonomous Mobility and Safety, and HR sponsor for Continental India, said the company has been working to ensure gender parity at the workplace, especially in areas underrepresented by women talent. Focused measures and topics including learning initiatives, sensitising programmes, mentoring, leadership development programmes, and equal pay are in place for women across different levels.
Prashanth Doreswamy, Head of Continental India and Managing Director Continental Automotive India, said, “Women for Manufacturing programme is Continental’s commitment to prepare and mobilise untapped women talent, towards achieving a more gender-balanced manufacturing society.”