For the second year in a row, Johnson Controls hosted meaningful panel discussions and a formal networking event to bring women – and men – together to promote diversity and inclusion in our industry.

Leveraging the largest HVACR tradeshow in the world, AHR EXPO in Atlanta served as the venue. "It was overwhelming to see the interest in our networking event and the number of women who took the time out of their evening to attend," said Renee Joseph, vice president global customer and sales enablement, Johnson Controls. "It shows the importance and relevance of opportunities like this for women."

Jo Birtwistle, executive director of communications, Johnson Controls, moderated the first panel discussion at the Johnson Controls booth on the topic of "Attracting Top-Flight Female Talent." On the panel for Johnson Controls were Kathy McCormack, vice president of human resources for Global Products; Beth Ray, director of product management, controls; and Daniela Bilmanis, manager of strategic programs, chillers. Each provided insights and personal anecdotes about how companies can attract and retain the best female talent.

A second panel discussion was moderated by Ryan Nolan, Johnson Controls global public relations program manager, on "Creating Your Leadership Legacy as a Woman in HVACR." On the panel were Jenny Stentz, area VP & GM, southern territory, Building Solutions North America, Johnson Controls; Danielle Putnam, president, The New Flat Rate; and Courtney Mayes, energy manager, Aramark's engineering and asset solutions at Morehouse College. Audience members heard how women can establish a lasting legacy and positively shape the industry.

The evening networking event drew more than 100 attendees, including more than 20 men. "It's important for both men and women at Johnson Controls to encourage and support greater diversity in our industry," said Clay Nesler, vice president global sustainability and regulatory affairs, Johnson Controls. "Our industry is facing a talent shortage and I believe attracting more women to our company will give Johnson Controls a significant competitive advantage."

Networking attendees made introductions and had the ability to connect and engage in discussions around not only the opportunities and challenges faced as women in our industry, but other business-related topics.

Although women have historically faced undue challenges, unequal pay and outright discrimination in the HVACR industry, Johnson Controls is working hard to ensure that all employees – men and women – are treated fairly, have opportunities to thrive and are compensated on the merits of their work.