In 2022, IPAF President Karin Nars launched the 'Women in Powered Access' initiative, inviting women of all ages and different professional roles to share their stories of inclusivity. The initiative includes a number of key actions, including providing a platform to tell the stories of women in powered access in both the media and at industry events. IPAF will also use its own print, web and social media platforms to share these inspirational case studies, and will also continue to invite prominent women speakers to present at IPAF events. IPAF will share a series of case studies at  www.ipaf.org/casestudy to communicate the opportunities our industry offers women. 

Linda Betts 
Major Accounts Manager, Access Platform Sales, UK

What is your role in powered access? My role in capital machines sales (AWP) is to manage and grow the UK major rental companies within our given sector, this can include heavy plant and small tool divisions.  

How did you come into this industry and what attracted you to it? It was a life time dream to achieve my HGV class 1, one of my first jobs was delivering AWP machinery after gaining my Ipaf and demonstrators licence which was completely new to me in truth I didn’t even know a scissor lift from a boom.  After completing my necessary licences from IPAF I was ready to hit the road alone. At that point, my affection for the industry grow in terms of people and products, and 29 years later I still love every minute.  

What do you find inspiring about your role? Every day is different, it’s a constant learning ground with so many interesting aspects. I believe the AWP world attracts loyalty shown time & time again from the people who have dedicated their life work to the industry, which inspires me to push and be better.  The people inspire me and the sector we operate in, its so varied and no two moments are the same.  

Where do you see yourself in five years and what do you want to achieve? As an extremely motivated individual who is driven by success and a craving to be at the top of her game, I now know somewhat older and wiser that I'm just living for each day and certainly have no idea what five years from now will bring.  What would I want to achieve today, to manage and serve my customers to the best of my ability, to help and assist my colleagues and ensure I'm playing my part as a team player.  

What one piece of advice would you give to other women in/thinking of entering the industry? My one piece of advice, is just be yourself and keep striving towards your goal and don’t give up. Unfortunately, you have to push that much harder being a male-dominated industry.