Since joining the company, I’ve witnessed first-hand how women within HPE’s partner community have continuously driven innovation as leaders within their respective fields. Their unwavering passion is inspiring, and I’m delighted to see once more confirmed that having strong female and diverse representation can impact the way we live and work. I know how daunting it is, as a woman, to enter an industry which is largely dominated by men, and so hearing positive experiences from women who have had successful careers – or even from young female talents that have just started their careers – can positively impact the career journeys of women.

For HPE, having a clear representation of women and diversity within the company is paramount to our success. This is one of the reasons why HPE implemented its Unconditional Inclusion Policy in 2020. We aim to foster a community where acceptance is not conditional, and diversity is celebrated, knowing that our greatest strengths come from the people who make up our teams and that our work thrives on differences. This diversity and inclusivity is what allows us to continuously innovate and make a positive impact, while making sure that our partner and customer base are accurately represented. It is that simple: when teams are made up of individuals with different outlooks, backgrounds and experiences, it gives us access to a whole new way of looking at the world.

With this being said, I am proud to see 7 women from across the business being shortlisted for the CRN Women & Diversity in Channel Awards. Here to champion, recognise and celebrate women and diversity in the channel, the awards address a key pain point, still prevalent in our industry: Women are still well under-represented across the industry. Recent reports show that women comprise only about 25% of the tech workforce and only 11% of executive roles.

These awards, honouring the accomplishments of the women in our industry, are a great reminder that, while we celebrate their achievements, this isn't just about one day but the continuous, longstanding efforts. They show us that these women are role models for others, a powerful force, motivating people, inspiring new career choices and driving enthusiasm for the technology industry.

And I am especially excited to see this many amazing women from Hewlett Packard Enterprise shortlisted for CRN Women & Diversity in Channel Awards this year, with women from across the business, and at completely different stages in their careers, being celebrated for their commitment to the channel. From Sophie Cutler who recently returned to HPE after a successful internship to Georgina Marsh who is in her first manager role, please join me in celebrating the following women:

• Meg Marshall, nominated for Graduate/Apprentice of the Year – Vendor/Distributor
• Sophie Cutler, nominated for Graduate/Apprentice of the Year – Vendor/Distributor
• Georgina Marsh, nominated for Manager of the Year – Vendor/Distributor
• Shannen Wilson, nominated for Role Model of the Year – Vendor/Distributor
• Amy Andrew, nominated for Executive Mentor of the Year
• Luana Holland, nominated for Executive Mentor of the Year
• Lucy Thomas, nominated for Mental Health Champion of the Year
• Georgia Meyer, nominated for Sales Employee of the Year - Vendor/Distributor

Thank you and congratulations to all the women who are celebrated in these awards. I hope that all the young women interested in a career in technology see the accomplishments of these women and know that that there are opportunities for them here, and that these will only continue to increase.