In a significant stride towards gender equality, Hyundai has made a groundbreaking move by allowing women to apply for technician roles at its South Korean plants. This decision comes as a result of mounting pressure from the company’s union and activists, urging the automaker to break barriers and pave the way for equal opportunities.
Six Women Join the Ranks
The results of this momentous decision are evident, as Hyundai recently hired six women as part of its recruitment drive to bring in 200 new technicians. While these six talented women are not the first to work as technicians at Hyundai’s South Korean facilities, this is the first time that the company has officially opened its application process to women.
Historically, women working as technicians at Hyundai’s manufacturing facilities were employed exclusively by subcontractors as temporary staff before becoming permanent employees. Now, with the application process open to women, Hyundai aims to foster gender diversity within its workforce and tackle the gender gap in technical roles.
With these recent hires, women now represent two percent of Hyundai’s 28,000-strong technician workforce in South Korea. Although the number might seem modest at first glance, it marks a significant step forward in the quest for gender inclusion within the automotive industry.
The journey towards gender equality doesn’t end here. Hyundai’s commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment remains unwavering. The company intends to add 500 new technician roles in the near future, creating more opportunities for talented women to join their ranks.
While Hyundai embarks on this path towards inclusivity, it also faces the challenge of addressing employment practices within its supply chain. Instances of underage labor within some of Hyundai’s suppliers in the United States have raised concerns. However, the automaker is determined to distance itself from any such unethical practices and ensure that its suppliers align with its commitment to fair and responsible employment.
Hyundai’s decision to open its doors to women technicians marks a turning point for the automotive industry. As one of the world’s leading automakers, its commitment to gender equality sets a powerful example for others to follow. By embracing diversity and empowering women in technical roles, Hyundai is transforming its workforce and driving change for the entire industry.
