DENSO Team Celebrates CADIA Impact Award for Supportive Initiatives
Working mothers often face unique challenges balancing their professional and personal lives. DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee, Inc. (DMTN) has taken significant steps to ease this struggle. The team, led by Christine Gray and Haley Penney, has recently been recognized with the prestigious CADIA Impact Award for their initiative in establishing and standardizing lactation rooms on campus.
Innovative Lactation Room Initiatives
Gray and Penney, who hold the roles of electrical controls engineer and quality engineer respectively, embarked on this project to ensure that working mothers could access comfortable and secure spaces while managing their dual responsibilities. Their recognition was awarded in the Systemic Change category, presented by CADIA, a leading organization aimed at promoting opportunities across the automotive sector.
The Beginning of a Grassroots Movement
The initiative started as a grassroots movement, responding directly to the needs expressed by their colleagues. “Initially, it was about creating just one room within our Electrification Systems Division,” Gray shared. “However, the feedback and requests grew, highlighting a vital need for more resources throughout our campus.” This revelation catalyzed a campus-wide effort.
Achievements in Supporting New Mothers
In late 2022, Gray and Penney gained support from the DENSO Women's Associate Resource Group, working closely with site leaders to assess how the company could better aid new mothers. They identified several suitable locations for conversion into lactation rooms and set out to develop uniform standards to ensure privacy and comfort. Each room's design skillfully separates milk storage from the pumping area, supporting privacy and minimizing interruptions.
Currently, DMTN proudly offers four lactation rooms, with plans to unveil two additional spaces soon. This expansion will ensure that every building occupied by manufacturing or office operations has a dedicated lactation space for its employees.
Recognition and Future Goals
Reflecting on their journey, Penney said, “While we celebrate this award, we know there’s still work to be done. The collaboration across departments has been phenomenal, and we remain committed to advocating for working mothers.”
Promoting STEM and Broader Impacts
In addition to their lactation room project, both Gray and Penney contribute to STEM activities as part of their roles within the DENSO Women’s Associate Resource Group. They actively encourage local students to consider technical careers, furthering DENSO's commitment to community engagement and inclusion.
The CADIA Systematic Change Award highlights the importance of dismantling systemic biases and barriers within the workplace, celebrating individuals or groups who promote equity and inclusion. The recognition of Gray and Penney exemplifies DENSO’s culture that invests in creating a supportive working environment.
Leadership's Commitment to Inclusion
During the recent award ceremony, president of DMTN, Chuntao Ye, praised the efforts of Gray and Penney, stating, “At DENSO, we aspire to enhance our workplace into one where everyone can thrive. Recognizing and fostering our team's unique contributions aligns with our core values.”
About DENSO
Headquartered globally in Kariya, Japan, DENSO is a major player in mobility solutions, generating approximately $47.9 billion in revenue. They continue to lead in technological innovation, with around 180 manufacturing facilities globally, focusing on advancing the automotive sector through electrification and mobility electronics products. This commitment to progress not only transforms the vehicles on the road but also aims to improve lives while protecting the environment.
Career Opportunities at DENSO
With over 27,000 employees across nearly 50 sites in North America alone, DENSO is continually seeking talented individuals committed to innovation and community support. They prioritize creating inclusive career paths for all team members, securing their position as a leading employer in the automotive manufacturing space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CADIA Impact Award?
The CADIA Impact Award recognizes individuals or teams who create systemic change and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within organizations.
Who were the recipients of the award?
Christine Gray and Haley Penney from DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee were recognized for their lactation room initiative.
What efforts did Gray and Penney undertake?
They led a project to establish lactation rooms, improving conditions for working mothers on campus.
How many lactation rooms does DMTN currently have?
DMTN currently has four lactation rooms, with plans for two more to be added soon.
What is DENSO's overall mission?
DENSO aims to create advanced automotive technologies that improve mobility while caring for the environment and empowering their workforce.
