Career Enhancement Programme 2026 Launches with Energy, Honesty and Ambition
Yesterday we welcomed 16 highly motivated and accomplished women from across the green skills and environmental sector to the first day of our 2026 Career Enhancement Programme — and what a powerful start it was.
From the moment our trainer, Marie Kane, opened the session with a lively icebreaker — complete with name-memorising challenges around the table — the tone was set. The exercise quickly moved the group from introductions to genuine connection, creating an atmosphere that was uplifting, open and energised for the rest of the day.
Setting the Context: Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors
The morning explored both the external and internal barriers that can shape women’s career progression in STEM and green industries. Using research, real-world case studies and participant reflections, we unpacked:
- The “glass ceilings” that still limit progression, including unconscious bias and structural barriers.
- The “sticky floors” that can hold women back internally — self-doubt, perfectionism, reluctance to claim achievements, and waiting until we “tick every box” before going for opportunities.
Through Appreciative Inquiry, participants reflected on their own achievements and strengths — shifting the focus from what’s lacking to what’s already working.
As one participant shared:
“I’ve done some similar professional development courses before, but this feels more structured and like I can genuinely take this away and impact my life.”
Doing Yourself Justice
A core theme of the day was learning to recognise and articulate value. From crafting a 30-second elevator pitch to identifying and challenging the “internal saboteur,” participants explored practical strategies to stop underselling themselves.
The room was alive with discussion — thoughtful, honest and supportive.
“Today’s programme was really well-paced and thought-provoking. Enjoyed inspiring discussion balanced with interesting exercises.”
“It’s a safe space to share experiences – ups and downs with contributions from a relatable group of like-minded professionals. A good mix of theory, task, discussions etc.”
We also explored leadership — demystifying what it truly means and recognising that leadership is not about fitting a narrow stereotype, but about valuing individuals, acting with integrity, enabling others and being decisive.
Hearing from industry speaker Nicola McIntosh added a powerful real-world perspective. As one participant reflected:
“Very interesting to hear about someone in the industry that hasn’t took a clear path to get where she is.”
Practical Takeaways That Stick
The energy in the room translated into clear, practical commitments. Some of the participants’ reflections included:
- “Delegate, delegate, delegate!”
- “An iss-you not an iss-me.”
- “Stop saying sorry.”
- “Keep a list of achievements.”
- “Don’t need to tick all boxes to give it a go.”
These aren’t just notes — they are mindset shifts.
One participant shared how she plans to apply the learning immediately:
“I took lots of one-liner notes, and will also use what I’ve learned to support the female staff member I have.”
That ripple effect — where empowered women go on to empower others — is exactly why this programme matters.
Building Momentum
With 97.5% of new and emerging roles expected to be within green skills, ensuring women not only enter but thrive and lead in this sector is critical. Creating spaces for reflection, strategy and peer support is one small but powerful step towards that future.
Day one demonstrated what happens when experienced, ambitious women are given space to connect, reflect and challenge themselves — the result is clarity, confidence and collective momentum.
We’re excited to see what this cohort achieves next.
