In 2022, IPAF President Karin Nars launched the 'Women in Powered Access' initiative, inviting women of all ages and different professional roles to share their stories of inclusivity. The initiative includes a number of key actions, including providing a platform to tell the stories of women in powered access in both the media and at industry events. IPAF will also use its own print, web and social media platforms to share these inspirational case studies and will also continue to invite prominent women speakers to present at IPAF events. IPAF will share a series of case studies at  www.ipaf.org/casestudy to communicate the opportunities our industry offers women. 

“I want to keep being part of creating a culture where everybody is equal no matter gender or ethnicity.” 

Katrine Aurora Balle
Instructor & Training Manager, Riwal, Denmark

How did you come into this industry, and what attracted you to it? I was studying for a masters in maritime archaeology, and trained as a commercial diver, then I was headhunted to become an instructor for safety training, including work in the wind energy industry. I find that I tend to be very alert on safety matters, which helps me in the way I view potential safety risks. Pre-empting comes very natural to me and so does assessing risks and finding solutions to mitigate/eliminate these. I think many women possess this ability and it is in high demand in our world. I like the fact that this industry gives me the opportunity to utilise my natural skills of pre-empting risky situations and my love of communication and education to improve the safe working environment of others. 

What do you find inspiring about your role? I believe education is key to a healthy and striving society. For me, providing people with education and seeking to raise their competencies, as well as moving their boundaries, is central to why I love being in this setting. I have always gravitated towards jobs that happened to be in male-dominated industries, and sought to move boundaries for myself and other women too; this is what I find inspiring about my role in this industry.

Where do you see yourself in five years, and what do you want to achieve? I believe education is key to a healthy and striving society. For me, providing people with education and seeking to raise their competencies, as well as moving their boundaries, is central to why I love being in this setting. I have always gravitated towards jobs that happened to be in male-dominated industries, and sought to move boundaries for myself and other women too; this is what I find inspiring about my role in this industry.

What one piece of advice would you give to other women in/thinking of entering the industry? Know your strengths, be proud and believe you have something to offer. Bring your expectations into your work. When you communicate your exceptions of yourself and towards others, they have a bigger chance of being fulfilled. Speak your mind. Be the change you want to see in others.