CS Group is no stranger to overcoming an issue, big or small. The architectural building products manufacturer has taken this same approach to its new partnership with Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT).
CS Group’s portfolio is far reaching across Australia and the world.
The company has produced architectural and interior product solutions globally for about 75 years, and Australia for about 35 years.
From wall and door protections specifically for hospitals, expansion joint covers, architectural grilles and exterior solar shading to safety venting and louvres, CS Group is on it.
The company’s products can be found in notable infrastructure such as the Sydney Airport, the New Royal Adelaide Hospital, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, the Sydney Metro Project and Uniqlo stores nationwide.
“We do all the manufacturing in-house both here in Australia and at our locations overseas,” CS Group Marketing Manager Jane Smith said.
“We have two different factories in Australia at Enfield and Condell Park (both Sydney).”
With such a major manufacturing portfolio, CS Group also strives to be a game-changer in terms of gender diversity.
It was this endeavour that eventually led them to EWIT.
Joining the Alliance
Earlier this year, EWIT launched the EWIT Alliance – a tangible solution to tackling key issues around diversity in the trades.
The Alliance is formal recognition that a company or business supports EWIT’s ambitious goal of 30 per cent female representation in trades by 2030.
Being an Alliance member presents bodies such as CS Group with support and resources including training programs and mentorship opportunities.
The Alliance also aims to tackle female tradie retainment, but promoting a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
“I know we’d love to see more women on our factory floors,” Jane added.
“This is a way we can help provide a pathway for female tradies.
“It’s a great example of the industry coming together to support females in trades.”
Forging ahead
Jane said as a whole, CS Group already maintained a fairly even split between men and women at the company.
However, joining up with EWIT represented the company’s eagerness to be part of the wider solution, given its can-do attitude to manufacturing architectural solutions.
“For CS it’s about creating a stronger industry, one that’s supportive of females,” Jane added.
“One that helps fill skill shortages and creates pathways for females looking to take up a trade.
“Removing that stigma that trades are just for guys … We want to represent that at CS Group.”
To learn more about joining the EWIT Alliance, visit here.