The energy sector, and more specifically the storage tank industry, has traditionally been dominated by men. However, in recent years, the number of women in the industry has been increasing, thanks to initiatives such as Women in the Tanks Industry (WITI).
Janelle Banks, Marketing and Operations Manager at the National Institute for Storage Tank Management (NISTM), shared her experience leading this group and its evolution in a recent interview. From its humble beginnings with small lunch gatherings to a recognized networking event, WITI has managed to create a space where women can connect, share experiences, and support one another.
The key to WITI’s growth
One of the keys to WITI’s growth has been its strategic focus on word-of-mouth and email campaigns targeting women within the industry. These often underestimated methods have proven extremely effective in such a specialized environment. Through these strategies, the group has reached many professionals who would otherwise have been unaware of the initiative.
Furthermore, the use of platforms like LinkedIn has allowed women from all over the world to connect and exchange ideas and challenges. This type of interaction has been fundamental to the personal and professional growth of women in the industry.
The Importance of Mentoring in Professional Growth
Throughout the interview, Janelle emphasized that in an industry like the storage tank industry, where competence and experience are key, having mentors can make the difference between stagnation and progress. Mentoring acts as a guide, allowing knowledge and experiences to be shared with the next generation of leaders.
According to Janelle, having a mentor isn’t just about professional growth, but also personal growth. Women in the industry face unique situations, and mentoring offers an opportunity to find solutions based on real-life experiences.
A promising future for women in the industry
The path toward greater inclusion and diversity in the tank industry is still in progress, but initiatives like WITI are laying the groundwork for a more balanced future. Janelle emphasizes the need to continue promoting educational courses that attract women passionate about topics such as the environment and renewable energy, as these aspects are increasingly aligned with the concerns and values of many professionals.
NISTM’s ongoing work and focus on creating an inclusive community for women demonstrates that the future of the industry is undoubtedly more diverse, collaborative, and empowered.
For more NISTM 2025 content, visit our YouTube channel and LinkedIn profile.
Source: Inspenet.