Robinson Cole LLP
High Contrast Mode
January 14, 2025 - In the News

Jeff White Discusses Male Allyship and How the Manufacturing Industry Can Close the Gender Gap on Women in Manufacturing Podcast

Hear Her Story
Share this page:

Manufacturing Law Industry Team chair Jeff White was a special guest on Women in Manufacturing’s (WiM) Hear Her Story podcast discussing male allyship and how manufacturing companies can close the gender gap in the industry. In advance of his presentation at the inaugural WiM “Men as Allies” conference in February, Jeff discusses his original involvement with WiM, his definition of male allyship, the powerful impact of women in high-ranking positions, the benefits of closing the gender gap, and the best advice he has received that influenced his career. “When I think about being an ally, one thing that crosses mind is you have to invest and support [these] efforts; I never felt comfortable with having an all-male [Manufacturing Executive Roundtable],” said Jeff. “We worked really hard to invite other female executives to be a part of the group and they have [joined]. I also think, certainly as a man, you have to eliminate certain assumptions that are built in…in my experience…female executive leaders [and] female factory floor workers are looking for an opportunity, they’re looking for training, and they’re looking for mentorship.”

In addition, Jeff also discusses how good listening skills, being empathetic to the challenges and barriers faced by women, leading by example, and embracing change and being willing to find different understandings are successful traits for not only integrating more women into the industry, but are key to any successful business. Jeff serves on WiM’s Board of Directors. Listen to the podcast.