Women's Panel Discuss Challenges Faced in Male-Dominated Fields

• On September 4th, the M&T Bank Center for Women & Business sponsored a panel discussion covering women's challenges faced in male-dominated industries
• Panelists included Shelly Carter, Cristina Schoeck, Sara Wilbur, and Teodora Lupu
• It was in partnership with the Hamden Regional Chamber of Commerce

On September 4, the M&T Bank Center for Women & Business held a panel discussion with Shelly Carter, Cristina Schoeck, Sara Wilbur, and Teodora Lupu on the obstacles women experience in male-dominated industries.

It was held in conjunction with the Hamden Regional Chamber of Commerce and moderated by Tuvana Rua, Director of the M&T Bank Center for Women & Business.

Shelly is Hamden's first female and minority fire chief. Her entry into the career as a firefighter was not planned, as she had no idea that she would become one. Her interest was piqued by a conversation with a fire department lieutenant.

Cristina, the fire chief of Meriden, began her service in healthcare during her training to become a respiratory therapist. Her tenure began through volunteering at an ambulance company, which introduced her to the fire department and ultimately to becoming a career firefighter.

Sara's professional journey was not conventional either. As a student studying marketing at the University of Connecticut, she interviewed with People's Bank. Today, she is Executive Vice President of Financial Crimes at M&T Bank.

Teodora is on her third career, having moved from portfolio management and data analytics to international trade and now serving as Head of U.S. SS&P Business Processes & Strategy.

As the panelists discussed their careers, they shared some of the challenges they had faced. Shelly explained encountering challenges of departmental adjustments, learning new processes, and questioning of prevailing traditions.

Cristina stated that her upbringing created skill gaps as compared to the male colleagues, but underscored the value of the desire to learn. Sara clarified that having the understanding of details at lower levels enabled her to establish strategic vision and leadership.

Teodora emphasized the problem of being heard and urged the need to have faith in one's own judgment based on rational thinking.

All the panelists provided insight based on their experiences. Cristina advised trusting one's intuition and believing in coming forward. Sara emphasized the value of networking—both in events and within companies—developing relationships, and learning from people.

A theme of authenticity was seen, with panelists urging women to be themselves and not attempt to fit the mold.

Second-year marketing student Kathryn Sakoulas corroborated that the session reinforced the importance of being authentic. She mentioned that being okay with being different and being able to boldly be oneself in any environment is essential.