At the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Annual Meeting, Selenah Njoloma, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Sonepar, sat down with Trade Hounds’ Vice President of Social and Content, Jeanette Abrahamsen. The two came together to discuss a challenge—and opportunity—that’s reshaping the future of manufacturing and distribution. Keep reading to discover how building a more inclusive industry isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s good for business.
The Current Landscape
Sonepar, one of the world’s largest electrical distribution companies with 45,000 employees across the globe, is leading the charge in fostering inclusive work environments. But as Selenah points out, the numbers tell us there’s still plenty of work to do. “In manufacturing, there are about 30 to 31% women. In electrical distribution, which is the industry that I'm in, it's lower at about 25%,” she explains.
Leaving women—and other underrepresented groups—out of the workforce means leaving talent on the table. “When companies have engaged employees who feel included,” said Selenah, “they get the most productive and best talent in the workforce and the best efforts out of them.”
Solutions Start with Action
Improving diversity isn’t a quick fix. It requires intentional action from employers, coworkers, and communities. At Sonepar, that starts with initiatives like employee resource groups, mentorship programs, and paid maternity leave. The company’s women’s group has helped lead the way, advocating for flexibility and support that reflects the realities of modern working life.
Selenah offered a clear roadmap for others to follow: 
- Flexible work arrangements that support work-life balance
- Fair and equitable pay for women in all roles
- Mentorship opportunities to help women navigate the industry
- Allyship from leadership and coworkers
“There are a lot of things that we can do,” she said. “But I'd say just get started and don't be afraid to take a risk.”
Addressing the Pushback
Jeanette also shared her experience with women in the skilled trades—particularly electricians—who are stepping into more visible roles and building strong communities on platforms like Trade Hounds. With that visibility comes both support and criticism.
“There are a lot of men that respond positively and encourage women to be in the industry,” she noted. “But you'll always have a few people who push back or who hate on women—especially the ones that are influencers… they get a lot of that negativity, especially on social media.”
Selenah acknowledged that some pushback around topics like DEI and inclusion come from fear of the unknown.
“What will that look like for me in my workplace? Is my job in jeopardy because these new people are coming in?” she said. “And really, it's not. There's space for everybody, and we want to make sure that we have workplaces where everyone can work and feel respected for what they're doing.”
Rather than dismiss the concerns of those who resist change, she encourages addressing them head-on. "I just want everyone to know that there's space for all of us and the workplace is better when we all work together and support each other. "
A Labor Shortage, and an Opportunity
Both Jeanette and Selenah highlighted another major reason why inclusivity matters now more than ever: we need more people. Skilled trades and distribution jobs are in high demand, and there’s a growing gap in the labor force.
Supply Chain Management Review found that about 20% of American manufacturing plants failed to produce at their full capacity because of labor shortages. The lack of workers in distribution is worsening supply chain disruption leading to delays. The Associated Builders and Contractors reported the construction industry needs to attract 439,000 new workers this year and 499,000 new workers in 2026 to keep up with demand. This lost productivity means lost revenue and a ripple effect that’s felt throughout the U.S. economy.
As Jeanette puts it, “who’s going to fill all of these jobs that we need to build the country we live in?”
The solution? Expand the talent pool and encourage diverse perspectives.
“It really is a great career,” Selenah emphasized. “You’re contributing to the future and to innovation because this is where it happens—and not a dime is made without you.”
A Message to Women in Trades
To the women considering a career in manufacturing, distribution, or the skilled trades, Selenah had a simple message: “Just keep going, be encouraged, and find those allies. As women, we need to support each other.”
She added, “this is a great time to enter the industry. I hope more women do. I’d love to see your face on the shop room floor or on the manufacturing floor, wherever you are. Take that leap—come on, and we’ll help you along.”
At Trade Hounds, we believe the future of the trades is stronger when it’s built by everyone. Watch Selenah and Jeanette’s full conversation below and stay tuned for more insights from people shaping the future of the trades.