The AL DÍA Women of Merit event is a celebration of women who are breaking barriers and emerging in leadership positions across the nation.

Sulma Dalessio, Director of Field & Meter Maintenance at PECO, is one of the honorees at the event, in the corporate field.

In the lead-up to the event, AL DÍA asked each of the honorees about their biggest career challenges and accomplishments, gender equality in their industries and their of advice for other women looking to make their way into their particular field of work. 

Here are Sulma Dalessio's responses:

I’ve taken a lot of chances and risks during my career and each opportunity has had their own challenges. For example, when I started working for PECO 14 years ago, this was my first job in the US and in a Utility and I had to adapt to a new culture and industry; I have been fortunate that a lot of men and women have supported me in every role which has helped me to continue growing professionally and as an individual. My most important achievement has been to be able to lead teams, drive change and positively impact others; I like to listen to my team and make sure they feel appreciated and know that their jobs are important.

I have seen improvement in terms of gender equality; however, the average percentage of women working in utilities is still low especially for certain roles and in leadership positions.

Gender equality is beneficial for our companies and communities; therefore, we need to continue increasing women’s access to male-dominated fields like STEM and ensuring women can secure jobs in these fields.  A solid peer support system is also important, women need mentors and sponsors to help them navigate and advance their careers.

Believe in yourself and be able to articulate your brand and what you want; ask for specific feedback to help you understand the skills that you need to develop. Reach out to other women within your industry and create strong networks that will help you connect with others and advance your career.

Finally, as you become comfortable in your job reach out to other women and pay it forward.