Considering that the aviation industry is an engine of social and economic growth for local communities and regions, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is particularly important given the critical role that airports play in facilitating global travel and commerce. It is crucial that the airport workforce reflects the diverse communities they serve to ensure that all passengers and stakeholders feel welcome, safe, and valued.
What is DEI?
In the aviation workforce, DEI refers to the commitment to create an inclusive and equitable work environment that promotes diversity, respects individual differences, and values all contributions regardless background. The aviation industry encompasses a wide range of jobs and roles, from pilots and air traffic controllers to airport staff and maintenance crew and they all play an important role in ensuring that the entire aviation ecosystem functions sustainably.
- Diversity refers to differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religions, and other factors that make individuals unique.
- Equity refers to creating a leveled playing field for all employees regardless of their background or identities. This means providing equal opportunities for advancement, access to training, and support for all employees.
- Inclusion refers to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. This involves actively promoting diversity, equity, and a culture of belonging, where all employees feel they can contribute and be themselves.
By prioritizing DEI during recruitment, training, and promotion practices, the aviation industry can benefit from different perspectives and experiences in leadership, which can lead to more innovative solutions, decision-making, and a stronger competitive advantage.
Give a fair access to communities
By implementing the concept of DEI, the aviation industry could give access to its workforce to all communities by:
- Breaking down barriers. The aviation industry can bring down systemic barriers that have historically limited access to certain groups by actively promoting DEI.
- Addressing unconscious biases. By providing diversity training and raising awareness of biases, the aviation industry can ensure that all employees are treated fairly and given equal opportunities to succeed.
- Meeting the needs of diverse customers. As the industry serves a diverse range of customers from all around the world, having a workforce that reflects this diversity can help ensure that the needs and expectations of all customers are met.
- Attracting diverse talent. When the industry and its stakeholders promote DEI, it sends a message to diverse communities that they are valued and welcomed. This can help attract a wider range of talent and ensure that candidates from all backgrounds have access to the aviation industry.
Future generations
As workforce requirements and expectations continue to evolve due to an accelerated rate of innovation, the introduction of new technologies and automation constitute new challenges faced by the industry.
Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) will represent one-third of the workforce by 2030 and has grown in a world where diversity, equity and inclusion have become increasingly important issues. They are more likely to seek out employers and organizations that prioritize DEI and are less likely to tolerate environments that are not inclusive and welcoming. Gen Z will embrace different cultures, background, and identities and support policies and initiatives that promote equity and address systemic inequalities. They will advocate for policy change and will take action to support causes related to DEI. This generation also values organizations that promote innovation, personal growth trajectories, and sustainability with a conscious approach to environmental protection. Promoting these core values through the industry should be prioritized to help with the recruitment of this generation for the future of the workforce.
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