In an increasingly diverse and inclusive world, it is crucial to support organisations that are committed to empowering women in business. One such organisation is WeConnect International, which is committed to improving women’s access to economic opportunities, particularly in the corporate supply chain. Through their certification as a “Certified Women’s Business Enterprise”, we want to show that we share these values.
But what exactly does this certification mean? WeConnect International is a non-profit organisation that works to promote women-owned businesses worldwide. Through their certification programmes, they identify businesses that are either founded or run by women and support them through networking, training and access to business opportunities. As a “Certified Women’s Business Enterprise”, companies not only receive recognition for their efforts towards diversity and inclusion, but can also be favoured by business partners who are committed to social responsibility and equality.
We receive this certification from Delia Bensing, Managing Director of Holztechnik Schwanekamp GmbH and MOprojects GmbH. Even in her youth, Delia was closely associated with the traditional family business Holztechnik Schwanekamp through her parents, as it has been run by the family for several generations. She also followed the founding of the sister company MOprojects GmbH in 2005.
However, after completing her school education, Delia initially decided to train as a warehouse logistics specialist at another company. She then went on to complete further training, including a vocational baccalaureate in business and administration and a business administration qualification.
In 2012, she took the plunge into the two family businesses and began her career by working in production, followed by working in all departments, accounting and human resources. At the time, she was one of only five women in a company with a total of 85 employees. Since 1 January 2017, Delia Bensing has been the Managing Director of Holztechnik Schwanekamp GmbH and MOprojects GmbH, and since 1 January 2022 she has been the owner of both companies.
There are now 11 women (approx. 120 employees in total) working in the company. They work in various departments, such as administration, purchasing, marketing, project management and production. Particularly with regard to training in the carpentry trade, a great deal of emphasis is placed on employing more women wherever possible. Three women are currently working in production as carpenters, one of whom is still in training and two of whom have completed their training here at the company and have been taken on.
As a female manager in a craft business in a traditionally characterised rural region, Delia Bensing is optimistic about the future. She is looking forward to making a contribution to promoting women in male-dominated industries.
Certification as a “Certified Women’s Business Enterprise” is not only an honour for companies such as Holztechnik Schwanekamp and MOprojects, but also a promise to continue working to promote women in business. By supporting organisations like WeConnect International, companies can help create a world where women have the same opportunities as men and where diversity and inclusion are celebrated.