AIP launches mentoring program for women in packaging

To support women in the packaging industry, the Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP), in collaboration with Emberin, has launched the Ignite Packaging mentoring program. A first for Australia and New Zealand, the self-paced development program is designed to help women in the food, beverage, manufacturing and packaging industries both professionally and personally.

Over a 12-week period, the program enables participants to master new skills and techniques, allowing them to create new patterns of behaviour, increased self-esteem and confidence in their own abilities. Also included is access to fortnightly webinars featuring guest speakers from within the industry.

More than 14,000 women in other industries have completed the program, and the AIP says it is time the program was made available to women in the packaging industry.

Aside from developing participants into stronger assets for companies, Ignite Packaging reportedly delivers side-benefits such as stronger engagement and significantly improved workplace culture. Additionally, the program provides organisations with an employee benefit tool, helping them attract and retain women in their workforce.

The AIP says there is a strong business case for attracting and retaining women across the packaging industry, and Ignite Packaging addresses many of the obstacles women experience in a male-dominated workforce.

The AIP aims to have all states represented in the pilot program, as well as New Zealand participants. Companies are invited to ‘sponsor’ two participants in the Ignite Packaging pilot program and encourage their female workforce to participate.

The pilot program was launched at the 2014 AIP National Conference. Applications for the program close on 25 July.

To access an application form, email info@aipack.com.au.