The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) successfully hosted its annual Elevation UK event, celebrating safety advancements, diversity, and technological innovations in powered access. With a strong focus on promoting safe practices, advancing training standards, and fostering inclusivity, the event highlighted IPAF’s ongoing commitment to creating a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone in the powered access industry.
IPAF’s Commitment to Inclusivity Through the Women in Powered Access (WIPA) Initiative
Opening the event, Lisa Bailey, IPAF’s Head of HR, reflected on the success of the Women in Powered Access (WIPA) initiative, launched in 2022 by Karin Nars, IPAF’s first female president. Since its inception, WIPA has worked to recognise and celebrate the contributions of women in the powered access industry, while also providing clear pathways for women looking to start or advance their careers in this field. The initiative has not only increased visibility for women in powered access but has also opened doors for networking, mentorship, and career development.
Speaker Tara Fosbrook shared her experiences as a woman in powered access, providing invaluable advice to women both already in the industry and those looking to enter it. A piece of advice she has shared for women looking to enter the industry is, “Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone! While the industry used to be very male-dominated, that’s shifting. It may not be the most ‘glamorous’ sector, but that’s exactly what makes it exciting – its uniqueness and niche appeal. There’s so much potential here, and there’s always room for fresh, diverse perspectives.”
Richard Whiting, IPAF’s UK Market General Manager, officially opened the Elevation Conference by welcoming IPAF CEO & Managing Director Peter Douglas on stage. Douglas presented an update on IPAF’s recent achievements, noting a 7% increase in both membership and PAL Card issuance compared to 2023. In the UK alone, IPAF has seen a 5% rise in membership and a 4% growth in PAL Card issuance, with further expansion anticipated before year-end.
Highlighting the success of the ePAL app, IPAF’s CEO shared that 65% of PAL cards are now issued digitally. Launched in 2021, the app has grown significantly, now boasting over 750,000 downloads across 205 countries, with the UK and Ireland leading adoption. “Promoting and enabling the safe, effective use of powered access worldwide—that’s IPAF’s mission,” Douglas emphasised. “We do this in many ways, but most importantly, IPAF is run by its members for its members.”
