Norland Limited

International Women’s Day 2021 was on Monday, March 8. We reached out and connected with multiple women at NorLand to ask about their own work experiences and what IWD means to them. The responses were so overwhelming and inspiring, that we decided to feature one or two every week on our NorLand News page and social media channels, plus March is “History of Women” month! Teammates Get Treated Like Family, and we are proud to share these experiences and stories of our own NorLand women. This week, we are featuring Eleanor McCorkindale (Procurement Lead, LNS) and Terri Biln (Project Coordinator, Apex & Pro-Tech).

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Eleanor McCorkindale
Procurement Lead, LNS

What does International Woman’s Day (IWD) mean to you?

International Women’s Day is a day to reflect on how far we’ve come and how much further we have to go. Our achievements did not come without sacrifices every day by the women before us.

Is your role what you expected to be in when you started in the workforce? How did it change?

Although I knew I would work in an office, I did not think office jobs in large companies in the 80s would become obsolete because of technology. So, I found a new opportunity with a small company in Procurement. I worked hard to make myself an integral part of the company, everywhere I went. I’ve never looked back.

What barriers have you faced, as a woman, in becoming successful in your role? How did you overcome them?

Vendors directed their conversation to any male in the room except me, even if I asked the question. Once it was understood that I’m the person who makes the decisions in Procurement because our company trusts me, they had to come around. Be professional and learn to speak their language so you gain their respect.

Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women considering pursuing a career in this industry? 

Persevere. The women who paved the way before us had to fight to succeed. Yes, we had to work harder and be better but once you’ve gained everyone’s respect your talent will be undeniable. Then you will become one of the women who is paving the way for those following after you.

How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you? 

I believe women lifting each other up gives inspiration and motivation to pay it forward. It’s like a movement that gains momentum. 

On IWD, what is the most important message you want to send to young women thinking about their careers? 

Love what you do. Be undeniable.

This year’s IWD campaign theme is #ChooseToChallenge. How do you think we can choose to challenge the gender norms in our industry? 

The number of women working across NorLand has grown so much since I started in 2012 but the needle hasn’t moved much for opportunity for women in management roles.

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Terri Biln
Project Coordinator, Apex & Pro-Tech (PIM)

What does International Women’s Day (IWD) mean to you?

What this means for me is to recognize the struggles and adversity we as women have faced and overcome and continue to do so. It’s a reminder and a call to action to help empower women everywhere. If we take a step back in history it is also a time to be grateful and pay homage for the women activists that fought for our rights, such as Rosa Parks who was called “the mother of the civil rights movement.” It’s a wonderful reminder of how far we have come and we have yet to go. 

Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women considering pursuing a career in this industry?

Reflecting back on my own experience, one key piece of advice and question I would give to women considering a career in this industry is that change is inevitable, and do you want to be a part of it? It is all in our response of how we move with it, especially in a fast-paced environment. Embrace the fact that you as a woman can be an impactful team-player in this industry. Don’t be afraid to try new things and to detach from outdated belief systems with respect to roles that were previously predominantly held by males. I have been pleasantly surprised and grateful to be working with an organization that supports growth. Take a leap of faith.

How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?

I think it is crucial that we as women lift one another up. This by no means, means that we demean any other gender. Celebrating one another, pushing one another to do better and be better. Inspiring one another to be the best version of themselves. Sometimes this means believing in someone so much they start to believe in themselves. I have two little girls and here is what I do know for sure: they are always watching me and learning from me. It is very important for me to show them that we are strong, uplifting, and courageous. This means we take risks in life and to be kind when doing so. My hope is that when they do go out into the world they model that behavior and be that for other women. This means we as a collective are taking the steps to make It a better and more equal world. That would mean everything to me.

This year’s IWD campaign theme is #ChooseToChallenge. How do you think we can choose to challenge the gender norms in our industry?

I #choosetochallege by speaking up, use my voice. I believe we can challenge the gender norms in our industry to encourage other women to climb the career ladder in whatever area they choose. We can challenge the gender norms by providing more knowledge around specific roles and career paths. Knowledge is power.