ADS releases inaugural Inclusion and Diversity Report
ADS, the UK trade association for aerospace, defence, security, and space organisations mandated global talent research firm, Wilbury Stratton to undertake a report exploring key issues and member firms’ perspectives surrounding inclusion and diversity.
ADS members are increasing representation in the aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors through a myriad of Diversity and Inclusion activities and approaches.
The report explores the areas of the employment outreach, recruitment, onboarding, employee experience. Some of the work ADS Members are undertaking to build more inclusive and diverse workforces is showcased as best-practice case studies highlighting efforts to fulfil industry wide targets and ambitions to build more inclusive and diverse sectors.
Through initiatives such as STEM Learning, the Women in Aviation and Aerospace and Defence Charters and the establishment of LGBTQ+ and EMBRACE internal networks, progress is being made to fulfil industry targets of more inclusive and diverse sectors.
ADS Chief Executive, Kevin Craven, said:
“It's clear ADS Members have made significant progress in challenging traditional perceptions of the Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space sectors. But, to build a truly inclusive and diverse workforce, there is more to be done.
“The report’s five recommendations are applicable to any organisation large or small and I encourage all ADS Members to consider their own Inclusion and Diversity Strategies.
“A balanced and inclusive workforce is good for business, people and ensures our sectors’ contributions to the UK economy and global prosperity is sustained for years to come.”
Mikhaela McDonald, Client Partner, Wilbury Stratton, said:
“Driving diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace is a huge part of our ethos at Wilbury Stratton, which is why we were delighted to support ADS in exploring the key issues and perspectives which surround such a vital and far-reaching topic.
“The research we conducted was designed to support and promote diversity in traditionally challenged industries such as aerospace, security, and engineering, and it was fantastic to see so many of ADS’ members engaged with the idea of doing this.
“Having spoken to members, it’s clear that companies are placing an onus on taking action beyond just ticking boxes and are really invested in promoting diversity across their operations. Wilbury Stratton is wholly committed to working with ADS and its members in the future to bring diversity of thought to how they work whilst continuing to unpick some of the most pressing issues facing the industry today.”
Those contributing to the report also said:
John Irwin, Managing Director, Denroy Plastics Ltd, said:
“Denroy were delighted to be able to contribute to the preparation of this report, in the company of many of our respected peers.
“The resulting report provides excellent insight as to how the key issues of Inclusion and Diversity are being managed in the Aerospace, Defence, Space & Security sectors, giving credence to many of our own activities and enlightening us as to how we could be even better. There is no doubt we will use this document to assess and refine our I&D activities”.
Dr Sam Healy, Group Director ESG, QinetiQ, said:
“Creating an inclusive working environment, where our people can thrive, is critical to our success. We were delighted to contribute to this report, which highlights the importance our industry places on diversity and inclusion and illustrates how working together we can drive positive change.”
Airbus Embrace ERG Committee, said:
"Airbus has engaged positively in I&D topics and programs. One key example is the reverse mentorship scheme which became a huge popular success. We look forward to seeing the I&D journey continue within Airbus."
Nigel Woodford, UK National Executive, Safran, said:
“In our industry our continued success is dependent on our people, and creating a high performing, innovative, and safety driven culture.
Research shows that diverse and inclusive teams are higher performing and more innovative, so ensuring we create the right conditions for diversity and inclusion in our teams is vitally important. Our work in this area will ensure our continued success as we move towards a more sustainable future.”
David Clark, Vice President Aerospace and Defence, UKE, Atkins, said:
“To drive the Aerospace and Defence sector forward and tackle the evolving challenges we face, we have to create an industry where anyone can build a career and succeed. Greater diversity and inclusion won’t happen by itself. It needs dedicated focus, initiatives and – most importantly – top-down support and advocacy from leadership.”
Jayne Moorby, Marketing Manager, Oxley Group, said:
“Research shows us that diverse teams are more effective teams, as an industry we must be more proactive in prioritising inclusion and diversity throughout all levels of our organisations.
“We welcome the publication of this report from ADS, and we were pleased to contribute to the content, the report is an excellent tool for practical suggestions of ways to include I&D thinking through every step of the employee journey.”
During Farnborough International Airshow, Wilbury and Stratton will be present on the ADS Stand, within the UK Village in Hall 1 on Wednesday and Thursday and are available to discuss the findings or the report further.
Read the full report here.