As the RACHP sector continues to struggle to bring more women into the industry and utilise female talent to its full potential, the Women in RACHP Network is undertaking research in this area in an aim to drive change. The network is requesting five minutes from all industry peers, in order to collect data to benchmark the industry’s benefits and attitudes towards women and explore what should be done to close the gender gap. 

This research focuses on cultural change, in order to re-brand the industry to be more female-friendly. By focusing on equal pay, a clear path of progression and a healthy work-life balance, it is expected that the survey results will play an important part in the wider goal of promoting the role of women in a male-oriented industry as well as showcasing the amazing opportunities RACHP has to offer to the next generation of female leaders.

Everybody working in the RACHP sector can take part in the short survey, and all entrants completing the questions before 01 December will be added to a prize draw to win a Latitude travel charger set.

Astrid Prado, member of the steering committee at the IOR’s Women in RACHP Network, said, “Women make up 25 percent of all people employed in the manufacturing industry and 12 percent of those employed in the construction industry in the UK. Although there are no official figures in the UK the reality of the RACHP sector is comparable to that of the US where women represent only 1.2 percent of the HVACR workforce.

“A reputation for being ‘man’s work’ is failing to attract talented women at all levels in the industry. Benefits are also failing to keep pace with the configuration and expectations of a diverse and modern workforce as we are living with the residual legacy of work packages developed decades ago for a largely male, full-time workforce. In order to drive change, we must redesign current workplace practices to accommodate the diversity of today’s workforce who want flexibility, equal opportunities, and better access to training and development.

“Let’s change this today by collecting extensive data on the gender-parity gap in the RACHP industry, establishing what are the most female friendly practices that promote diversity and inclusion, and pushing improvements forward, to help encourage more women into the RACHP industry.”

Feedback from industry professionals will be used to evaluate progress over time. Questions are based on the industry’s current business practices and will highlight what the most female friendly practices that promote diversity and inclusion are. 

Ms Prado added: “Although this is only a starting point, the outcome of the research will serve not only as a point of reference but as industry guidance for the future, to help us improve and ensure we offer an attractive package to women so that they are inspired to join and stay in the industry.”

The survey is open to both men and women working in all roles and from all pay grades and structures.

Anyone taking part in the survey can request a complimentary copy of the report for reference, which is a great opportunity for businesses to compare against and ensure they are able to attract and retain top talent.

To take the survey go to  www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/wrachp19