Northern NJ Council Hosts
Unconscious Bias Roundtable
The Northern NJ council, together with GAF’s Women in Sustained Equality (WISE) and PB Roofing, hosted a virtual Roundtable on Unconscious Bias on June 15th. The lunchtime webinar was attended by over 100 people and focused on positive ways to support opportunities for women in a male majority industry. Council Chair and GAF Technical Sales Director, Lynn Picone moderated the discussion addressing sensitive issues like; emotion in the workplace, inclusivity in corporate events, hiring and promotion and women giving themselves permission to be authentic.
Panelist included Randy Bargfrede – COO at GAF, Anthony DeKarski – Executive VP at PB Roofing, Dan Senft – GAF VP of Steep Slope Sales in the East, and Alma Garnett – VP of Commercial Roofing Sales at GAF.
Feedback from attendees included comments like, “it’s refreshing to listen to different perspectives and know that these topics are no longer taboo.”
Other key takeaways captured include:
On Communication … ‘When you communicate with positivity and understand your intended audience, the impact of your message is powerful’
Randy Bargfrede, COO at GAF
On Creating an Inclusive Organization… ‘It begins from the moment a new employee walks in the door, it is part of everything we do’
Anthony DeKarski, Executive VP at PB Roofing
On Opportunity… ‘Women are thriving in this industry. Their perceptions add tremendous value. When you see an opening, apply. We need more women.’
Dan Senft, VP Sales Steep Slope – East at GAF
On Achieving Success… ‘Do the work, know your stuff and be fearless!’
Alma Garnett, VP of Commercial Roofing Sales at GAF