Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee

IFAC TC5.2 DEI committee

The IFAC Technical Committee on Management and Control in Manufacturing and Logistics is pleased to announce the creation of its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, starting from 2026, thanks to its promoters Prof. Olga Battaia and Prof. Fabio Sgarbossa.

The establishment of this Committee reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive professional community in which researchers, practitioners, and students from all backgrounds can fully participate and thrive. The DEI Committee will work to promote equal opportunities, encourage broader participation in TC activities, and help create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and represented.

 

Goals of the DEI Committee

The DEI Committee aims to:

  • Promote diversity and inclusion within the TC community and its activities.
  • Support career development and professional growth for members at different stages of their careers.
  • Encourage participation from underrepresented groups in manufacturing and logistics research and practice.
  • Facilitate networking, mentoring, and knowledge sharing across the community.
  • Raise awareness of DEI-related challenges and best practices within the field.

 

Planned Activities

The Committee has identified several initial actions and initiatives:

  • Mentoring Program

Members seeking support from the DEI Committee may request a mentor from within the TC community. The Committee will facilitate appropriate connections between mentors and mentees, with the objective of supporting professional development, career planning, networking, and integration into the research community.

  • Conferences Special Sessions

Dedicated special sessions on career advancement and DEI will be organized during conferences and symposiums sponsored by TC 5.2 (INCOM 2027, MIM 2028 etc.). The sessions will provide an opportunity for open discussion on career paths, leadership development, inclusion, and strategies for building a more diverse and equitable professional community.

  • Webinars on DEI Topics

The Committee plans to host period webinars focused on DEI-related topics relevant to the manufacturing and logistics community. The webinars will feature invited speakers and interactive discussions aimed at sharing experiences, challenges, and good practices.

  • Exploration of a DEI Award

The Committee will also consider the establishment of a DEI-related award to recognize outstanding contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the IFAC manufacturing and logistics community. Eligibility criteria, nomination procedures, and selection rules will be defined in consultation with the TC leadership.

 

Invitation to Participate

The success of the DEI actions depends on the active engagement of the TC community. We warmly invite members to participate in the Committee’s activities, share ideas, volunteer as mentors, and contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Further information about upcoming events, mentoring opportunities, and Committee initiatives will be communicated through the TC website and mailing channels.

 

Together, we can strengthen our community by embracing diversity, promoting equity, and fostering inclusion across all aspects of manufacturing and logistics research and practice.

 

For more information, please contact