WOMEN’S MONTH AT ANGLEC – EMPOWERING EQUITY HONOUREE
Carleen Gumbs
As the final part of the 2023 Women’s Month the Office of Public Relations at ANGLEC selected a distinguished group of ANGLEC ladies to be featured for their contributions to the company and their unsolicited commitment to supporting equity for women within the workplace and the community.
Carleen Gumbs is a Human Resources professional with an extensive background in various fields to include technology and finance as well as her years of HR leadership. She has served as the Head of Department for ANGLEC’s Human Resources for just over 1 year and has already captured the respect and admiration of staff at all levels within the organization, which is not an easy feat. At ANGLEC the staff, specifically the T&D Department are extremely committed and expect a lot of themselves and others when it come to supporting and representing operations at ANGLEC. In December 2022, the gentlemen of T&D recognized her efforts thus far and her willingness to join them for work in the field with a custom certificate of appreciation signed by each of them. Carleen as not only meeting the mark at ANGLEC as quickly but is working to push forward in short time to create a new standard of excellence. Her support of women in the organization similarly noteworthy. With an open door policy for communication, attention to women’s issues (both personal and professional) and desire to diffuse internal conflicts, Carleen seeks to support equity for the woman of ANGLEC and the best part is, she’s just getting started.
For these reasons Carleen was selected as a 2023 ANGLEC Women’s Month Honouree. So let’s get to know her! In the below interview we learn more about the woman behind the work, her take on equity for women and her view on inspiring the next generation.
Getting to Know Her
- What is your favourite song?
My favourite song is “ I Know Who I Am” by Sinach.
Favorite hobby is picking Whelks on the sea rocks.
My role model growing up was my late grandfather Matthew Gumbs. He taught me just about everything I know about the sea. He also taught me how to be cool, calm, and respectful while at the same time knowing how to defend myself. His words of wisdom have helped mold me into who I am today.
4. What was your favourite subject in school?
My favorite subject in school was Mathematics. During my years in college, while pursuing my Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, I tutored every maths classes including Calculus 1,2, and 3.
If I could only eat one food for the rest of my life, I would absolutely choose Fish.
My favourite part is that HR is not a mundane or boring profession. It is constantly growing and changing. Interacting with my peers is the favourite part of my job. It’s being proactive and reaching out to employees, listening to their concerns/issues, and assisting with a positive solution.
7. What would you say is the hardest part of your job?
The hardest part of my job is letting go of an employee. It is truly disheartening to think someone may be losing their only/main source of livelihood, no matter the reason.
Embracing Equity
- What is your view on the theme “Embrace Equity”?
Embracing Equity is an ongoing effort and commitment. It is ensuring fair treatment to all, by breaking down barriers and creating an environment where all employees have access to the same opportunities and resources. - In your opinion, how can men and women work together to ensure a work environment of Equity?
Firstly, the workplace needs to have a culture that depicts ‘Equal Employment Opportunity”, ensuring gender equality. Equal Employment Opportunities extend to every part of the HR process from creating posts that are considerate of both men and women’s needs to allowing for training, programs, acknowledgement and healthcare options that are well suited to meet the needs of all employees regardless of gender or any other characteristics. To achieve this men and women have to advocate for themselves and others and participate when those desired opportunities arise to create an environment of equity and growth. - How are you able to embrace equity at ANGLEC?
Ensuring each employee is given an opportunity to succeed and have access to the tools required to do so. Policies and procedures are in place to be adhered to by all employees.
Inspiring Others to Embrace Equity
- What advice would you give to young women about equity in the workplace?
- Have confidence in yourself, never say that’s a man’s job.
- Do not be silent on gender bias.
- Sit at the table and let your voice be heard, your success is your personal responsibility.
- Become a role model as a female leader.
As mentioned previously, anyone can advocate for themselves and others and participate when those desired opportunities arise to create an environment of equity and growth. Ensuring that there are polices that support equity.
3. What role does leadership have in promoting equity in the workplace?
