By Nia Kendall, Communications & Marketing Intern, GRCA
Statistics collected by McKinsey & Company shine a light on the stark reality of boardrooms and executive suites worldwide, disclosing that women represent roughly one in four C-suite leaders, and women of color just one in 16. Despite comprising half of the global population, McKinsey & Company also reveals that the number of women in the C-suite has had an 11 percent increase since 2015, peaking at 28 percent as of this year.
As the world commemorates International Women’s Day on March 8, the Greater Reading community pauses to recognize the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers and driving change, while also acknowledging the unyielding determination circulating women in these roles. Unfortunately, despite their significant contributions to the local economy, women continue to face challenges in reaching leadership positions. After heavy analysis, the Pew Research Center finds that two-thirds of all adults (65%) say being compassionate better describes women than men, while only 2% say this better describes men than women. In the same study, it was revealed that most of the public (80%) says that men and women make equally good business leaders, but many feel businesses are not ready to hire women for top executive positions.
The impact of women-led or women-owned businesses extends beyond the boardroom, shaping the fabric of a stronger community. GRCA’s female President & CEO Lucine Sihelnik has contributed over 20 years of working to build and promote sustainability in Berks County. Climbing the corporate ladder, Sihelnik has progressed from a small business owner to a city councilwoman, to her new role within GRCA. Her contributions have proven the importance of having women in C-suite positions historically given to their male counterparts.
Through job creation, economic growth and the promotion of diversity and inclusion, businesses are driving positive change and making a difference in the lives of residents. By celebrating their achievements and recognizing their contributions, we can inspire future generations of women entrepreneurs and create a more inclusive and prosperous community for all. A prominent example of female excellence in the C-suite executive role is Irish Creek President and CEO, Sarah Phillips.
Phillips is a seasoned leader in the construction industry, known for her exceptional expertise and dedication to excellence. As the head of the Irish Creek Team, she provides specific oversight of its General Construction and Construction Management Divisions, ensuring that the mission of finding ideal solutions through construction always remains paramount throughout the project lifecycle.
“Becoming President wasn’t a specific goal of mine, it was more of a result, or natural path, of pushing to grow the business,” said Phillips. “I didn’t care what my title was, I wanted our entire company and team to grow and thrive, so I always acted in ways that would move the business towards those goals. No task or decision was ever too small for me to work on or complete.”
With a career spanning over two decades, Phillips has established herself as a visionary businesswoman, adept at navigating the complexities of the construction sector in multiple states.
“Irish Creek has grown 151%, and expanded services to New Jersey, Ohio and Delaware. [It] has made the Inc. 5000 list of Fastest Growing Privately Held Companies in America twice, received the Federal Woman Owned Small Business Certification, and has been awarded the GRCA Building Excellence Award four times,” she said.
GRCA plays a crucial role in supporting women entrepreneurs, like Phillips, through various programs, resources and networking opportunities. From mentorship initiatives to advocacy efforts aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion, GRCA is committed to fostering an environment where women-led businesses can thrive and succeed. In addition to providing networking opportunities and resources, GRCA offers the Women2Women program—a platform dedicated to developing women leaders and fostering connections among women from diverse backgrounds. Open to all who support women, this initiative catalyzes learning, sharing ideas and mentorship. Through monthly events featuring a diverse range of speakers across age, gender, background and industry affiliation, Women2Women represents the rich tapestry of Berks County and beyond, inspiring women to reach their full potential and make meaningful contributions to the community.
Through collaboration and empowerment in programs like these, women entrepreneurs are finding the support they need to achieve their goals. However, even with the healthy steps many businesses are making equality in the workplace is still a hurdle many corporations have yet to overcome. Yes, the successes of these female entrepreneurs speak volumes of their character and value, but the underlying murmur of decreased funding and gender bias still lurk throughout the office.
“I think there is a preconceived notion that women, especially young women, are looked at as less knowledgeable and less capable in the construction field so at times I am not taken seriously at first glance,” Phillips said. “On multiple occasions, I’ve taken male employees to meetings with me and other contractors or owners introduce themselves to my male counterpart first and begin to talk to them before me.”
Another Pew Research Center study backs up Phillips’ experience. It found that, among employed adults, women are about twice as likely as men (42% versus 22%) to say they have experienced at least one of eight specific forms of gender discrimination at work.
While progress has been made in advancing gender equality, the findings from the Pew Research Center remind us that gender discrimination remains a pervasive issue in the workplace. As we reflect on the achievements of women entrepreneurs and leaders in Greater Reading this International Women’s Day, let us also renew our commitment to creating inclusive work environments where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect. By challenging stereotypes, advocating for equal opportunities and supporting women in their professional endeavors, we can move closer to a future where gender discrimination is a thing of the past.