L3Harris’ Lou Speaight is a Finalist at Women in Defence UK Awards 2024

Every winner has a story of overcoming challenges, breaking barriers and affecting positive change within their organisations. By sharing their stories, more individuals are inspired to step forward, challenge barriers and contribute to the transformation of the Defence sector.

The Inspirational Award recognises individuals who have inspired or positively influenced the choices of other colleagues. Louise Speaight, Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications at L3Harris, was nominated by her peers for this award and shortlisted as one of only 33 finalists out of 500 submissions.

"Louise's dedication to championing diversity and inclusion has been a catalyst for positive change within our organisation," said Graeme Mackay, Vice President of L3Harris in the U.K. "Her passion for creating a more inclusive, equitable workplace is palpable and her impact is undeniable. Through her tireless advocacy for equal opportunities, Louise has encouraged peers to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new challenges and champion important causes."

Deserved Recognition of Dedication to Equity and Inclusion

Speaight's nomination for the Inspirational Award recognises her strategic vision to transform the U.K. Chapter of the business' Women Who Strive for Empowering, Enhancing & Encouraging Other Women (WE3) Employee Resource Group into a cohesive and impactful U.K.-wide initiative.

Since founding the U.K. Chapter of the WE3 ERG, Louise's vision and leadership has inspired 11 sites to unite. As a result, membership has flourished exponentially, witnessing a remarkable 1000% increase in members and a 450% increase in allyship to date. The U.K. Chapter of the WE3 ERG was also shortlisted for the Champion for Maximising Talent Award, a further testament to Louise and the group's impressive impact.

"Attending the Women in Defence U.K. award ceremony to collect my finalist trophy and being surrounded by the most inspirational women I've ever had the pleasure of meeting was an honour," Speaight said. "It's definitely the pinnacle of my career so far. Events like this make me proud of how far we've come and even more determined in my pursuit of true gender equity within our industry."

Although Louise ultimately didn't take home the winner's trophy, it was an incredible achievement and raised both hers and the business' profile in the eyes of our customers and industry peers.