Exploring Diversity & Inclusion in STEM and Supply Chain: Why It’s Time to CANCEL THE MANEL (all male panels) and How to Embrace Diversity and Inclusion at Industry (and Virtual) Events

Episode 15 is a provocative and timely topic for supply chain and
STEM professionals around the world. As we enter conference
season coupled with the transition to virtual events due to
COVID19, the on-going persistence of all-male panels must stop.
It’s time to cancel the MANEL! As eloquently described by Dr.
Francis Collins, the diversity of bright and talented minds
has come a long way and
our public engagements need to catch up. Breaking up the subtle
(and sometimes not so subtle) bias that is preventing women and
other groups underrepresented in science from achieving their
rightful place in scientific leadership must begin at the top.
Creating new norms is a tough and challenging process. We hope
this a helpful step to bring awareness to the MANEL and
encouraging others to embrace diversity and inclusiveness at
events and conferences.


In this episode, you’ll hear why MANELS must STOP, why a level
playing field with gender diversity is necessary, why being
inclusive isn’t just about “inviting a women on a panel” or
better yet “having a women moderate or interview the panel”.
We describe changes in the supply chain workforce and population
of recent graduates. Ageism and challenging traditional norms is
a contentious task, but necessary to shift the status quo. Our
hearts are in the right place during this difficult discussion.
Women and members of underrepresented communities should also
have an opportunity for speaking slots at high-level supply
chain, STEM, and academic events and conferences. We urge you to
take the panel pledge and draw the line by calling out
actors who may unknowingly (or knowingly) participate in this
stale and divisive tradition. 


To learn more about the MANEL pledge, visit:
https://www.owen.org/pledge/


Find us, connect, and explore at
https://www.supplychainrevolution.com/