The Women’s Leadership Initiative’s (WLI) Allyship Program is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating individuals who actively support and advocate for the advancement of women in the semiconductor industry. Through their efforts, our allies help foster a workplace where every voice is valued, and every talent has the opportunity to thrive.
The Allyship in Practice series is an extension of our Allyship Program, aimed at sharing insights, strategies, and real-world experiences that demonstrate the power of allyship. By equipping individuals with the tools to create more inclusive environments, we strengthen the industry’s talent pipeline, ensuring a broader, more diverse, and highly skilled workforce.
Keep reading to hear from Tait Sorensen, Head of Americas Public Affairs at STMicroelectronics, as he shares his perspective on allyship and its impact on the industry.
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In the spirit of the movie “Yes Man” starring Jim Carrey, where the protagonist’s life transforms by saying “yes” to every opportunity, I have embraced a similar philosophy when it comes to allyship. These affirmations have enriched my professional journey and reinforced the importance of fostering an inclusive environment.
Working at STMicroelectronics (ST) for the past 25 years, I have collaborated with some of the most brilliant creators and makers of semiconductor technologies. Currently, I serve as the Head of the Americas Public Affairs, but my journey towards becoming an ally began early in my career in investor relations at ST. My role involved interacting with members of the financial community, another industry historically led by men. Recognizing the gender imbalance in both sectors, I actively looked for ways to support and uplift women.
My dedication to allyship was strengthened in my current role, where I am more strategically positioned to influence and support these efforts. Transitioning from investor relations to public affairs and becoming the primary interface for ST with the Global Semiconductor Alliance and its Women’s Leadership Initiative has provided me with the opportunity to actively foster inclusivity within STMicroelectronics and beyond.
To me, allyship is about standing in solidarity with underrepresented groups, advocating for their rights, and actively working to create an inclusive environment. It means leveraging my experience to amplify the voices of those who might otherwise go unheard. In a professional setting, allyship is not just about supporting diversity initiatives; it’s about embedding inclusivity into the very fabric of our organizational culture.
The semiconductor industry, like many others, has historically been male dominated. This lack of diversity can stifle innovation and limit the industry’s potential. Allyship is crucial because it helps to break down these barriers, fostering a culture where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. I have seen firsthand the positive impact of allyship on individuals and workplace culture. When people feel valued and included, they will contribute their best work, leading to greater innovation and success for the entire organization.
In today’s climate, allyship has become both more challenging and more necessary. The increasing awareness of social justice issues means that there is more pressure to address systemic inequalities. However, this also means that resistance can be stronger. Despite these challenges, the necessity of allyship cannot be overstated. It is through these efforts that we can create a more equitable and inclusive industry.
One of the most tangible ways men in the industry can be better allies is by actively listening to their female colleagues. This means not just hearing their words but understanding their experiences and challenges. Being aware of initiatives such as the WISH conference and the resources offered by organizations such as WLI can provide valuable insights and inspiration. I recall an impactful conversation with a female colleague whose career aspirations and motivation were reinvigorated after attending WISH. This conversation highlighted the unique impact of WISH and the importance of ensuring that all voices are heard.
Approaching difficult conversations about inclusivity requires empathy and patience. It is essential to create a safe space where colleagues feel comfortable expressing their views, even if they are initially resistant. I have found that sharing personal experiences can be an effective way to build understanding and foster a more inclusive dialogue.
For men who want to be allies, my advice is simple: start small and be willing to learn. Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, and it is better to try and fail than to do nothing at all. Seek out resources, attend workshops, and engage in conversations about inclusivity. The more you learn, the more confident you will become in your allyship efforts.
Resistance to inclusivity efforts is not uncommon, but it is essential to remain steadfast in your commitment. I have encountered resistance in various forms and have found it helpful to stay focused on the bigger picture while seeking support from like-minded colleagues. To those who feel their workplace is not welcoming to allyship efforts, I would say: persistence is key. Change takes time, but every small step forward is a victory.
Allies can support one another by sharing resources, offering encouragement, and collaborating on initiatives. Building a network of allies creates a stronger foundation for fostering inclusivity within the industry.
For women who want to engage male colleagues as allies, my advice is to start with open and honest conversations. Share your experiences and explain how they can support you. When approaching a superior about allyship, it is important to frame the conversation in terms of the benefits to the organization. Highlight how inclusivity can lead to better decision-making, increased innovation, and improved employee satisfaction.
In my experience, women who actively participate in allyship efforts by mentoring others, leading diversity initiatives, and speaking up about inclusivity have significantly strengthened our workplace culture. One conversation that stands out to me was with a female engineer who shared how an inclusive environment allowed her to thrive and contribute more effectively. This conversation reinforced my belief in the power of allyship and the importance of creating a supportive environment for all employees.
Allyship is a continuous journey that requires dedication, empathy, and a willingness to learn. By actively supporting and advocating for inclusivity, we can create a more equitable and innovative semiconductor industry. So, let’s take a page from “Yes Man” and say “yes” to opportunities that foster inclusivity and support our colleagues.