Autodesk Life
Women’s History Month is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society and has been observed annually in the month of March in the United States since 1987. In partnership with our Autodesk Women’s Network (AWN) employee resource group, Autodesk celebrates Women’s History Month globally by hosting events throughout March, including a series of webinars, a luncheon at Autodesk’s annual sales conference, and our first-ever AWN Summit.
Last year, we centered Women’s History Month around the theme of “creating your next chapter,” emphasizing self-discovery and owning and evolving your career. This year, we’re building on that theme with a focus on making connections and finding inspiration and empowerment. Read on to meet a few members of Autodesk Women’s Network and learn what this theme means to them:
Neda Tamannaee is a Manager of Data Engineering based in Toronto, and has served as AWN’s Toronto chapter lead for the past year and a half. Outside of work, Neda loves music and enjoys singing and learning how to play the piano. She also loves to travel and enjoys exploring old towns, eating and shopping locally, and experiencing beautiful, diverse cultures.
Jennifer Nockels is a Brand Marketing & Communications Manager based in Singapore, and the AWN ASEAN chapter lead. She enjoys sharing financial investment tips and is passionate about empowering women with the knowledge to achieve financial freedom. On the weekends, Jennifer can be found exploring art galleries and breaking a sweat in high-energy fitness classes!
Ana Laura Zapata works in Brand Marketing Operations and is based in Mexico City. She is passionate about practicing different activities – whether it’s dancing salsa and bachata, experimenting with yoga at home, or playing basketball with friends, she loves immersing herself in diverse disciplines.
What does AWN’s theme for Women’s History Month mean to you personally?
Ana Laura: Overall, the theme embodies empowerment, recognition, and solidarity, encouraging everyone to celebrate women’s achievements and strive for a more equitable and inclusive world. It also aims to inspire action and advocacy for gender inclusivity and to address the systemic barriers women may face in the workplace and beyond. It can motivate individuals to support initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating an environment where women can thrive both professionally and personally.
Jennifer: This theme is the very reason that I joined the Autodesk Women’s Network! Witnessing and exchanging stories of women’s achievements not only inspires me but also sets a powerful example for others. My aim? To cultivate a vibrant AWN community and create opportunities for connections, learning, and sharing of experiences.
Neda: Building connections and getting the chance to hear other people’s stories has always been a source of inspiration for me. It helps me put my creative hat on and start imagining my path toward a better version of myself, both professionally and personally. As AWN chapter lead, I truly enjoy making the same kind of space for my peers to connect, get inspired, and be supported to craft their own journey and reach their full potential on their own terms.
How can others help other women feel connected, inspired, and empowered in the workplace?
Neda: By creating a safe space where vulnerability is encouraged, and not seen as weakness, and by promoting authentic selves, so real courage can be exercised. At an individual level, we can all think about how we interact and communicate, self-reflect, and ask ourselves frequently how we could make our interactions more candid, inclusive and empowering.
Ana Laura: There are several ways in which individuals can help women feel connected, inspired, and empowered in the workplace, including offering support and encouragement by actively listening to ideas, concerns, and experiences; creating opportunities for collaboration (such as networking, mentorship, and skill-sharing) to facilitate connections and empower women to learn from one another; and recognizing and celebrating achievements to highlight successes and amplify voices.
Jennifer: When women see other women breaking barriers and excelling in leadership positions, it serves as a powerful example and source of inspiration. Allies also play a pivotal role in amplifying women’s voices, sharing their successes, and actively working towards creating an inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone can thrive!
Beyond AWN, how does Autodesk support women in the workplace?
Jennifer: In addition to Autodesk’s incredible platform for learning and coaching, the company’s flexible work arrangements have been a game-changer for me as a new mother. It’s enabled me to strike a balance between work and spending precious time with my son. It’s truly rewarding to see a company prioritize employee well-being in such a meaningful way.
Neda: I am grateful for all the resources that have been made available to me to explore and invest in my growth as a person and as an Autodesk employee – Autodesk’s Management, Leadership & Coaching programs are excellent. I am usually the first one to raise my hand when an opportunity arises, and I try my best to encourage my team members and peers to do the same.
Ana Laura: Autodesk supports women’s professional development through various channels, such as mentorship programs, training, workshops, conferences, and skill-building opportunities. The company also recognizes the significance of work-life balance and helps employees in managing their personal and professional responsibilities. Autodesk also values employee feedback and takes proactive measures to address concerns and suggestions for improvement. This may involve conducting surveys, focus groups, or one-on-one conversations to understand the unique challenges and needs of women in the workplace and implementing changes accordingly.
Celebrating Women’s History Month with Autodesk Women’s Network
Learn more about Autodesk’s employee resource groups here.