Chemistry Neutral Forum Aims to Increase Number of Women in C-Suite Positions
SAN DIEGO – SEPTEMBER 24, 2021 – Today Battery Council International (BCI) announced a new group to aid the professional development of women in the battery industry during the group’s annual BCI Convention + Power Mart meeting in San Diego.
The mission of the group, Women in the Global Battery Industry, is to help women further their own careers as well as help to further their companies’ goals by relationship building within the industry. Membership will be open to professionals in the global battery industry who are seeking to develop all aspects of their career.
“As a second generation professional in the battery industry, I know how valuable relationships are in building leadership skills to serve in executive positions within the industry, especially in one that is a traditionally male enterprise,” said Julie McClure, chairman of MAC Engineering, based in Benton Harbor, Mich. The firm specializes in equipment manufacturing for the lead battery industry. McClure will serve as the group’s first chair.
“Through the networking, professional growth, education and mentorship opportunities we will offer, I am excited to increase the number of C-suite executives in our growing industry,” said McClure.
The group’s vice-chair is Virginia Archibald, chief financial officer of Surette Battery Co., Ltd., Springhill, Nova Scotia, a manufacturer of premium deep cycle batteries for use in renewable energy, marine, motive power and railroad applications.
The formation of the group is supported by BCI Board of Directors and its President, Chris Pruitt. “I’ve seen within my own company the power of diverse points of view from an inclusive workforce. This is such a great opportunity for the battery industry to further promote the growth of women within our leadership ranks, and I’m proud to be a part of today’s announcement.” In addition to BCI President, Pruitt is CEO and President of East Penn Manufacturing Co., which operates the largest privately held single-site battery manufacturer in the world with over 10,000 employees, headquartered in Lyons, Pa. The company was recently named as one of America’s Best Employers for Women by Forbes and Statista.
“I want to thank the BCI board for all of their vision and support of this adventure that we are embarking on,” said McClure who also recognized members of the steering committee who have been instrumental in launching the initiative: Virginia Archibald, Surrette Battery; Melissa Floyd, Stryten; Claudia Lorenzini, Microporous; Ellen Maxey, Clarios; Maria Roma, Advanced Battery Concepts; Sheila Ryles, Teck Metals; Donna Snyder, East Penn Manufacturing; Tammy Stankey, The Doe Run Company; Emma Thacker, EnerSys; and Pam O’Brien, BCI.
To inquire about membership email info@batterycouncil.org.
Battery Council International is the North American trade association representing the lead-based battery manufacturing, supply, recycling and distribution companies.
