FIRE (Female Inclusion, Resilience, and Excellence) Up is one of our 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. FIRE Up members have created a supportive community of change, and much of that change happens because of the countless networking, development, and allyship events they host throughout the year.
As we celebrate March's Women’s History Month, we connected with a few members of FIRE Up to amplify their voices outside of our internal community. Here, they’re sharing both stories and examples of how they — and all of us — can advocate for a global workplace where women are empowered, enabled, and equal.
Women’s History Month: How U Krewers Uplift and
Empower Women
Maritza K., Senior Director, Global Integration Services
My team’s focus is on technology and the integration of data solutions that focus on carrier integrations. I’m also one of the FIRE Up chairs.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the workplace and how have you overcome them?
Every individual has faced some sort of challenge within the workplace at any given time. For me, many years ago at another organization, I was told I wasn’t selected for a desired opportunity because of my gender and becoming a stay-at-home mom. For anyone that knows me, they know I enjoy working and adding value to a team. I overcame that challenge by joining UKG, where all employees are valued.
What makes you feel supported at UKG?
My leaders, my network at UKG, and the ERGs.
How do you uplift other women?
I listen, acknowledge, offer help, and make sure ideas are heard.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Get a mentor, this is the most important thing you can do for yourself.
Lotte V., Account Executive
I’m responsible for selling our products in continental Europe, particularly in the Benelux [Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg]. Before moving to this role, I practiced law and worked in sales for a legal technology firm.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the workplace and how have you overcome them?
Unfortunately, not every company is like UKG. In the law industry, hierarchy is still very common and not always woman friendly. I thought I could deal with it, but in the end, I spoke up and went to HR. Speaking up made me feel very strong! When I realized nothing was going to change at that organization, the best choice for me was to leave.
What makes you feel supported at UKG?
All of the people around me, no matter their job title. I feel very welcome, able to be myself, and encouraged to do my best work. I also appreciate the UKG open culture, where I feel comfortable sharing my mistakes so I can learn and get better.
Is there a UKG program that you find encouraging?
The entire new hire onboarding process was wonderful, and I love being a part of FIRE Up.
How do you champion other women?
I encourage others to step out of their comfort zone and share openly with me. Only then will you be open to receiving help.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women?
There is so much distraction and so many opportunities to compare ourselves against others. Stay true to yourself and believe in yourself. I try to keep that in mind at work, as well as during the triathlon races in which I participate in my free time. There are always women who are stronger and faster. But when I know what I'm capable of, I can stick to my own plan and not be intimidated by the women who overtake me.
Talona F., Presales Solution Consultant
I’m an innovative government consultant who uses a data-driven strategy that ties together HR and workforce management analytics to empower agencies to deliver positive outcomes for their people and citizens.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the workplace and how have you overcome them?
Several times throughout my career I have been the only woman on my team. This has led to struggles with finding my voice and doubting myself. I overcame them by seeing myself for who I am and understanding the value I bring. I also worked to build my personal brand, grow my network, and spend time in self-reflection to make sure I was learning and growing both professionally and personally.
Is there a UKG program that has impacted you?
Joining an employee resource group (ERG) workstream has provided me opportunities to grow my skill set and meet individuals across the organization -- people I never would have met. I am motivated everyday by the dedication, support, and true allyship I see across UKG.
What makes you feel supported at UKG?
My network and the friendships I've built with my team and across our ERGs help me feel supported. Plus, the new hire programs like the “U to U Krew Guide” program were pivotal during my onboarding.
How do you champion other women?
I celebrate their wins, listen when they speak, and encourage them when they have self-doubt.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Establish your brand, build your network, and believe in yourself!
This March, FIRE Up has some incredible programming that’s designed to elevate and empower our female U Krewers. Some of the events include speed networking, book discussions, leadership connections, a session on personal branding, a clothing drive, and several other local and virtual events.
Looking to join an organization where you can find a community of growth and change? Explore Careers at UKG.
