Saudi initiatives driving female participation in defense industry

  • 2/8/2024
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RIYADH: Female participation in the defense industry is being accelerated thanks to Saudi-led initiatives, the Kingdom’s US ambassador told delegates at a global industry event. Speaking at the World Defense Show 2024 in Riyadh, Princess Reema bint Bandar hailed the changes which will see women begin service in front-line military roles for the first time in the Kingdom’s history. The catalyst for the change was the announcement of Vision 2030 in 2016, and in September the inaugural graduation ceremony for female recruits in the armed forces was held. “I am proud to be a part of this transformative initiative that highlights the advantages of diversity in defense,” Princess Reema said. Leading the International Women in Defense Program for its second appearance at the event, the ambassador emphasized the recognition of women in the industry. She said: “The WDS International Women in Defense Program is a vital step toward engaging, cultivating, and advancing women across the defense sector, in line with Saudi Vision 2030. It’s about recognizing and amplifying the significant roles women play and encouraging this positive change globally.” The event also featured Heidi Grant, vice president of Global Growth and Engagement at Boeing Defense, Space and Security, as well as national diversity champions and industry figureheads including Maj. Gen. Adel Al-Balawi, Saudi Arabia’s head of Armed Forces Education and Training Authority. Ahead of the session, the WDS Chief Commercial Officer Amanda Stainer said: “Our International Women in Defense Program goes beyond mere recognition. It’s about actively shaping a more inclusive future in the defense sector. This program is a practical step toward integrating diverse perspectives and skills, which are crucial for the innovative evolution of our industry.” She added: “By championing women’s involvement, we’re not just changing narratives; we’re building a stronger, more resilient defense community for the future.” Another pioneering initiative aimed at diversifying the industry and fostering its future talent is the Future Talent Program, sponsored by BAE Systems and General Dynamics. The program aims to host more than 8,000 students in line with the Human Capital Strategy for the Military Industries. WDS CEO Andrew Pearcey said: “The Future Talent Program, alongside the International Women in Defense initiative, represents our dedication to cultivating a diverse and skilled workforce. Investing in youth and promoting gender diversity are not just obligations but essential steps for the continuous evolution of the defense sector.” The importance of diversity in the defense industry was raised by Rolls-Royce’s Middle East Senior Vice President Cate Wilkinson in an interview with Arab News on the sidelines of the event. “When I first started, I would be the only woman in a meeting, but that’s actually your superpower,” she said, adding that this was a “positive” as she could provide a different perspective. “My advice to Saudi women is be positive, be open to the opportunities wherever they take you, take them, grasp the work with them, and use your superpower,” said Wilkinson.

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