As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we connected with a few members of UKG’s employee resource group FIRE (Female Inclusion, Resilience, and Excellence) Up to learn what makes them feel supported and to learn more about the community they’ve built at UKG.
FIRE Up is one of nine employee resource groups (ERGs) at UKG. It's a community of likeminded U Krewers working together to uplift and empower women, build professional development skills, and raise awareness about bias and gender inequality.
Karen W., Manager, UKG Global User Adoption Team
What challenges, if any, have you faced as a woman in the workplace and how have you overcome them?
I’ve endured some stuff that honestly no one would want to put in print. I’ve a story or three; I’m sure we all do. Language is so important, and across my career, I see workplaces and society becoming more articulate at identifying a shared language, which can be an opportunity! By shared language, I mean the words we use to express an experience, situation, or health issue. For example, when I was in primary school, we did not use the term gender equality. However, when we express these ideas and create language to describe an experience, we also give the power to change.
I’d like to believe that some stereotypical attitudes of old won’t pass through to the next generation.
What makes you feel supported at UKG?
The conversations with people that help me to hold the crystal up to the light and see the different refractions – essentially their unique points of view. I have had champions advocating for great outcomes, supporting me and others, and it isn’t in their job description! I hear from customers who love and value that UKG cares for their success and invests in ideas. I know we don’t always get it right, but we are up front about that, too.
Is there a UKG program that has encouraged you?
Within the Learning Community Adoption team, I am constantly encouraged by the way our teams stand up and consciously create culture. The program that has significantly impacted me is the Community Makers program. The Community team is small, and we are the first recipients of customer, partner, and employee opinions, criticisms, and hopes. The Community Makers program is an opportunity for any U Krewer to contribute to a vibrant online Community, which supports our customers, partners, and colleagues. We can amplify the way we show up for each other, and support customers and colleagues.
What is your favorite part of being a member of FIRE Up?
By far, my favorite part has been getting to know people, and making friends and connections with other members and allies around the world. I’ve put my hand up and said I’m ready to contribute, to build a community for myself and others around the globe. I encourage any U Krewer to review our ERGs and select one that most inspires them. FIRE Up has introduced me to so many people, which I appreciate and value.
Why do you believe women stay at UKG?
I’ve seen how people genuinely care for each other at UKG, regardless of gender. I can’t talk for other women; I can speak for myself though. There’s an essence of being on the edge of something new. New ways of working, new tools, new products, and overall showing up every day and contributing to a better place for each other, and for the lives we touch through our products and services.
How do you advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion?
I believe there is so much we can learn and apply to our lives, and that the pace of change is intense; so, creating moments where ideas and positive action can be facilitated is critical. There is inequality all around us, but the opportunity to nurture hope and encourage time to talk about intersectionality, family, death, career, aspiration, birth allows us to breathe while achieving change. I advocate in the home and in my family most. If my boys can both value and respect my beliefs, and in turn, nurture their own core values to be inclusive and recognize and call out inequality, I’m happy.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women?
You are capable; there are always choices. There are new jobs and ways of working that we have not conceived of. Equally, there is critically important work that can’t be ignored. Be open to skilling up, diving in, and at times, resting. The journey will be amazing and rewarding!
It’s ok if you make mistakes, but don’t quit because of them – learn from experiences. Form support circles that are unique to your needs in any area of your life. Be proud of yourself for trying something new, even if you realize it’s not for you. Say yes to opportunities and learn from colleagues and mentors. Be inquisitive, ask questions, and listen. Feed your ideas forwards, find ways to share, connect and stay true to yourself.
"There is critically important work that can’t be ignored. Be open to skilling up, diving in, and at times, resting. The journey will be amazing and rewarding! "
Manager, UKG Global User Adoption Team
Valarie Z., Director, Travel Management
What challenges, if any, have you faced as a woman in the workplace and how have you overcome them?
I don’t feel I’ve faced challenges in the workplace. Throughout my career, I’ve always worked in the travel space which is predominantly female. I’ve been fortunate to work with great people along the way who’ve always supported each other.
What makes you feel supported at UKG?
Without a doubt, the people!
Is there a UKG program that has impacted you or that you find motivating or encouraging?
FIRE Up! I love being a part of this network of women and allies. I got involved immediately after starting at UKG and it has been a great way to build my network. I especially love being involved in the community outreach and impact workstream and the local impact we make in our UKG communities.
"I love being a part of this network of women and allies. I got involved immediately after starting at UKG and it has been a great way to build my network."
Director, Travel Management
What is your favorite part of being a member of FIRE Up?
Working with the members across the globe to help women and young girls. The impact is immediate and is making a difference.
Why do you believe women stay at UKG?
It’s simple. People stay where they feel welcome and appreciated. I feel UKG is a place where everyone is welcomed, and the many benefits offered make me feel appreciated.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Be confident and don’t be afraid to take on new things. Be a good person and surround yourself with good people.
Kia-lee F., Sr Mgr. Professional Services Consulting
What challenges, if any, have you faced as a woman in the workplace and how have you overcome them?
One of the main hurdles I have faced and worked to overcome is access. Oftentimes the biggest gap to an opportunity is simply having access to it. It's hard to be selected for something to which you have no access. I have learned to put myself out there, ask for opportunities, and stay engaged and open to all types of collaborations. Because of this mentality, I’ve expanded my network and been offered greater access and awareness to opportunities.
What makes you feel supported at UKG?
My leadership team makes me feel supported. They see me, they collaborate with me, and they advocate for me in spaces where I am not.
Is there a UKG program that has impacted you or that you find motivating or encouraging?
FIRE Up has impacted, encouraged, and motivated all the versions of me: career professional, caretaker, and woman of color.
"FIRE Up has impacted, encouraged, and motivated all the versions of me: career professional, caretaker, and woman of color."
Sr Mgr. Professional Services Consulting
What is your favorite part of being a member of FIRE Up?
The ability to have access to opportunities such as learning, networking, professional development, mentorship, and being in the presence of like-minded people.
Why do you believe women stay at UKG?
As a woman of color, I stay at UKG because I feel seen, heard, and supported. I have opportunities here and I believe in the future of our organization.
Want to hear more from FIRE Up? FIRE Up Executive Sponsor and Global VP of Service Operations at UKG, Susan Cyr joins U Krewers Kishia Jefferson and Mustapha Kebbeh for a LinkedIn Live discussion, Empower Your Career: Reskilling and Upskilling for Professional Growth. Register now.
INTERESTED IN JOINING THE U KREW? EXPLORE CAREERS AT UKG.
READ OTHER STORIES FEATURING OUR U KREWERS IN EMPLOYEE RESOURCE GROUPS (ERGS).
