Women are forging ahead in fields across the board, and the lead battery industry is no exception. As we come off the heels of International Women’s Day on March 8, we are proud to recognize two of Club Assist’s leading ladies for their strides in this traditionally male-dominated field. Desiree Edwards, Vice President of Customer Experience, and Meredith Fordham Hughes, Director of Marketing, are paving the way toward a gender equal world as founding members of Women in the Global Battery Industry (WGBI), a professional organization of Battery Council International.
Meredith Fordham Hughes
Director, Marketing
Club Assist
“Women’s voices have been a part of the battery industry for years, but those voices have not always been highlighted, sponsored, or promoted into circles where decisions are made. I hope that the WGBI can advance gender equality in the lead battery industry, as well as provide a guiding light to young women who are interested in advancing their careers,” said Fordham Hughes.
With a mission to promote and develop the growth of women in the battery industry, the organization focuses on enhancing members’ skills and experiences, addressing challenges confronting the industry, and promoting members’ career growth. The ultimate goal is to increase the number of women employed in this division of the automotive field. WGBI believes that women can derive benefit for themselves and their companies through relationship building, education, and shared knowledge.
Desiree Edwards
Vice President, Customer Experience
Club Assist
“The automotive industry is no longer just for our male counterparts, as women bring a different sense of creativity and vision to an age-old industry. Just like Helen Emsley, who redesigned the interior of the Chevrolet Corvette Stringray, or the launch of a professional women’s group to inspire other women, we continue to disrupt the battery industry in imaginative ways. A battery is to an automobile what a little black dress is to a woman – versatile, simplistic, and timeless, a true staple for a night out on the town,” said Edwards.
From C-Suite to management, engineering, marketing, and more, WGBI membership is comprised of women from roles at all levels and disciplines in the battery industry. Membership is reserved for career-oriented professionals and STEM program students who are seeking opportunities for growth and achievement. The experience can be enhanced for those willing to serve on committees, as well as chapter and international boards. Learn more about the WGBI.
Interested in Joining the WGBI?
If you are a woman in the battery industry seeking opportunities for professional growth and achievement, we encourage you to apply for membership. Manager approval is needed, and the membership fee is $100. Click here to apply.