A conversation with Jess, female Service Engineer at Ash Air

There is nothing that our women canโ€™t do! In celebration of International Women's Day in March, we turned our focus to chat to our Field Service Engineer, Jessie. 

At Ash Air we break the stereotypes, and firmly trust the power of our women, gender diversity and equality. We have a 30% female workforce in effect, with representation in all areas of our operations: warehousing, administrators, finance, logistics and planning, management, as well as sales and service engineers.

Here's what Jess had to say: 

How would you describe Ash Air?

"Forward thinkers - they think outside the box, and apply that logic to real life."

What is a highlight of working at Ash Air?

"My team... the team I've got to support me are absolutely amazing.  We hire for the right people, for the right jobs."

What attracted you to a Field Service Engineer role?

"The opportunity to explore not only a different variety of machinery, but also explore a little bit more of my country as well."

What stood out to you about joining the Ash Air team as a female engineer?

"They spoke to me like I was an Engineer that wants to further my career - that's what means the most!"


What do you do on a daily basis?

"I fix machines and I help people with their operations on a day to day!"

What were you looking for in this role?

"Something that could stimulate my mind, but was also adventurous and outgoing. Ash Air seemed to tick all the boxes for me!"

What could we do to attract more women into a Field Service Engineer role?

"Advertise for women! We are out there, and we want to do this stuff. To have a company that encourages what we are interested in doing, is the first step in the right direction."


About International Women's Day

International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.

IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. IWD is not country, group or organization specific.

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women's achievements or rally for women's equality. 



Marked annually on March 8th, International Women's Day (IWD) is one of the most important days of the year to:

  • celebrate women's achievements
  • raise awareness about women's equality
  • lobby for accelerated gender parity
  • fundraise for female-focused charities

#IWD2023

    What's the International Women's Day 2023 theme?

    The campaign theme for International Women's Day 2023 is #EmbraceEquity. Equity isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society's DNA. And it's critical to understand the difference between equity and equality. IWD 2023's campaign theme aims to get the world talking about why "equal opportunities are no longer enough." Read more about this here.


    What's the history of International Women's Day?

    International Women's Day has occurred for well over a century with the first gathering held in 1911. Learn more about the day's timeline on the IWD website
     

    What colors symbolize International Women's Day?

    Purple, green and white are the colors of International Women's Day. Purple signifies justice and dignity. Green symbolizes hope. White represents purity, albeit a controversial concept. The colors originated from the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK in 1908.
     

    Who can support International Women's Day?

    International Women's Day is not country, group, nor organization specific. No one government, NGO, charity, corporation, academic institution, women's network, or media hub is solely responsible for International Women's Day. The day belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. Gloria Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist once explained "The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist, nor to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights."  So make International Women's Day your day and do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women.


     About us

    Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!

    Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and weโ€™ve grown into a nationwide company with international support and a reputation for quality and reliability.We look after all things compressed air for your business!

    • Reciprocating, Screw, air compressors
    • Vacuum pumps
    • Nitrogen
    • An extensive line of air treatment components

    Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, Alup, Pneumatech, and Quincy compressors are used extensively around the world in industries ranging from oil and gas to food, automotive and farming, and we bring you these world class compressors here in the land of the long white cloud.Our technicians are compressed air equipment experts and are dedicated to addressing customer needs. Supported by a 13 locations nationwide, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air equipment and parts available today in New Zealand.

    Reliability and Efficiency

    With Ash Air compressors, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our efforts on the following:

    • Increasing uptime
    • Reducing unexpected repairs
    • Reducing energy consumption
    • Improving the cleanliness of compressed air


    Talk to the team today:  CONTACT US CONTACT US


    For many businesses, preserving energy and becoming more sustainable have become top priorities. That not only saves them money but also makes them more competitive in the future, when demand for โ€œgreenโ€ products and services will only increase. Not just because governments mandate greater sustainability but also because you, our customers expect it. Here, we talk to our experienced Sales Engineer, Romain, who has a strong background in helping our partners with energy efficient compressed air options to get the most out of their business.


    To make shopping easier, Ash Air ow offers the Afterpay payment option, so you can Shop Now, Wear Now and Pay Later, Interest Free. Afterpay offers interest free payment plans for both your online & instore purchases.
    You buy what you want today and pay it off in four equal and affordable, interest free fortnightly installments. 


    On May 17th, we united to promote kindness, inclusion, and the global vision of eliminating bullying. Through mindfulness activities and awareness sessions, we stood together to make a difference. Discover how Ash Air is contributing to a more compassionate world. ๐Ÿ’— #PinkShirtDay #StopBullying


    We've created a new section on our website showcasing our case studies. Stay tuned, as we will add more regularly! Discover how Ash Air has partnered with various businesses across diverse industries in New Zealand, delivering top-notch compressed air, vacuum pump, and nitrogen solutions to a wide array of customers. Explore our compelling case studies below.


    We are pleased to announce that we have relocated our Palmerston North Service Centre to 667 Tremaine Avenue. Although our address has changed, we continue to offer the same excellent service to our customers.


    Water for All is our main community engagement initiative. Through the dedicated and passionate work of volunteering employees, Water for All funds projects which empower people through access to clean drinking water, sanitation and hygiene. Since 1984 we have reached millions of people all over the world and there are local Water for All organizations in more than 50 countries. Ash Air recently fundraised internally - here's how it went.


     Last week some of our Field Service Engineers delved into the world of e-controllers and optimisers at Ash Air Head Office. It was a dynamic blend of hands-on experiences and theoretical insights, ensuring we stay at the cutting edge of Connectivity and Optimisation for your compressed air systems.


    The safety and well-being of our team remain our top priority. On April 28, 2024, we commemorated Safety, Health, and Wellbeing Day at Ash Air. This occasion provided us with an opportunity to contemplate the importance of safety, health, and wellbeing in our daily routines. Our celebration at Ash Air is in sync with organizations globally, aligning with the UN's World Day for Safety and Health at Work.


    In dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace culture that values and celebrates every individual, we joyously commemorate International Women's Month throughout March.


    Celebrate International Women's Day with the Ash Air team on March 8th, where we recognise the importance of contributing to forging a better working world - a more inclusive, gender equal world. Ash Air is an equal opportunity employer and has female representation across the entire company. Ash Air has representation in our National Warehouse, Branches and Head Office locations with administrators, accounts, schedulers, sales and service engineers, and managers roles throughout the country. Here we talk to Maryam, our new Sales Engineer for Bay of Plenty region!


    Discover the #PowerofRed with our Red Hot Deals on Chicago Pneumatic Portables for a limited time only!



    Designed for demanding job sites, our Chicago Pneumatic mobile air compressors for sale in NZ allow operators to run multiple hand tools and hammers at the same time for maximum efficiency. Theyโ€™re also ideal for sandblasting, irrigation blow-outs and general construction applications.We have a limited number of CP portable diesel compressors for sale at massively disconted prices to the New Zealand market. 


    Here Jess, an Ash Air Service Engineer, kindly spoke to us about navigating the industry as a women amongst men, and how to get more young women choosing Engineering fields as their career. At Ash Air we break the stereotypes, and firmly trust the power of our women, gender diversity and equality. We have a 30% female workforce in effect, with representation in all areas of our operations: warehousing, administrators, finance, logistics and planning, management, as well as sales and service engineers. 


    ๐ŸŽ„โœจ To give thanks to the incredible Ash Air team for their dedication and hard work through the year, we recognise this throughout the country with Christmas get-togethers. This year was one for the books! It was the first time we brought together as many of the Ash Air family as possible, for an unforgettable Christmas in the Park Family Event! ๐ŸŽ‰


    And just like that, 2023 is coming to a close. And what a year it has been!  We would like to take the opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support throughout 2023. We look forward to continuing to supply you with our industry-leading products and trusted services now and in the future. Wishing you and your team a safe and happy holiday season.


    Discover the transformative journey of Ash Air, a trailblazer in compressed air excellence since 1979. With over four decades of commitment to energy efficiency, sustainability, and tailored solutions, Ash Air stands as a reliable partner for industries across New Zealand. As we celebrate our legacy, explore how our nationwide sales and service network continues to empower businesses, providing cutting-edge solutions and ongoing support


    In the world of pneumatic power, Chicago Pneumatic stands as a beacon of reliability and innovation. For those seeking to elevate their projects with top-tier air compressors and tools, the exciting news is that the benefits don't stop at the exceptional quality of Chicago Pneumatic products. Now, celebrate the added perk of free shipping when you shop CP air compressors and air tools from our Online Shop!


    In Q4 Ash Air rolled out a nationwide Circles training program, led by our General Manager, Pompilio. It was an opportunity to educate and encourage the team to learn more about our vision and purpose.


    Here at Ash Air we work together to create a place where everyone can thrive. Here, you can unlock your potential, drive innovation, and stay relevant in our rapidly changing world. We strongly believe that the key to unlocking potential, driving innovation and a sustainable future for all, is lifelong learning.


    This month, the Ash Air team, throughout the country (Auckland North and South, Waikato, Taranaki, Bay of Plenty, Christchurch and Dunedin) celebrated the launch of Water For All in New Zealand! ๐Ÿ’ง๐ŸŽ‰


    What is Water for All? Water for All is Atlas Copco Group's main community engagement initiative. Through the dedicated and passionate work of volunteering employees, Water for All funds projects which empower people through access to clean drinking water, sanitation and hygiene. Since 1984 the Group have reached millions of people all over the world and there are local Water for All organizations in more than 50 countries.


    This year, ALUP is celebrating its 100th anniversary. That means

    • 100 years of excellence
    • 100 years of innovation
    • 100 years of satisfied customers
    • 100 years of service
    • 100 years of quality


    Most of the products that you see in daily life are using vacuum, and like compressed air, most businesses both world-wide and locally rely on it throughout their day-to-day functions. Our customers want a reliable process that creates lasting results in a way that is economically, environmentally, and socially responsible. At Ash Air, our Vacuum team bring forward a portfolio of extensive knowledge, coupled with a passion for new challenges that focus on productivity, energy efficiency and safety. Here we talk to Jonathan, about all things Vacuum, as well as learning more about our focus on sustainable productivity!


    Even when designing a system for supplying production with compressed air or vacuum, oxygen, nitrogen or other gases, one thing is clear: it will not work without maintenance. Compressed air filters and compressor lubricants have to be changed regularly, wear parts have to be replaced so that the system runs reliably and safely for many years. Between 5 and 10 percent of the total investment amount has to be calculated for the maintenance costs each year. Here we discuss the advantages of service agreements with Sunil, our Service specialised Sales Engineer for Ash Air.


    We have a workplace culture that considers and supports our employeesโ€™ mental and physical well-being and positively encourages employees to actively improve their health and well-being! Recently...


    In our connected and changing world itโ€™s essential to keep learning and upskilling ourselves. We have a culture that actively promotes continuous learning, for the good of everyone's professional and personal development. 


    The health and well-being of our people are vital to us, which is why we set very ambitious standards for workplace safety. We promote a healthy and active lifestyle and encourage a healthy work-life balance. Coming into winter, its more important than ever to make sure our team are feeling well! 



    At Ash Air, we are committed to being part of the solution for a better tomorrow with our compressed air solutions. An integrated sustainability strategy, backed by ambitious goals, helps us deliver greater value to all stakeholders in a way that is economically, environmentally, and socially responsible. Learn more about our sustainability framework!


    Safety, Health, and Wellbeing Day is a day that reminds us to prioritize safety and health not only in the workplace, but also for our customers. Itโ€™s day for us to reflect on our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for everyone... Read more about how Ash Air implements safety in the workplace here.


    Here at Ash Air, we are proud to be opportunity employer. Infact, we have 30% female representation across the entire company. For a male dominated industry, we're very proud of this. Ash Air has representation in our National Warehouse, Branches and Head Office locations with administrators, accounts, schedulers, sales and service engineers, and managers roles throughout the country.


    Ash Air is proud to share that we have achieved the SiteWise Gold Certificate award.

    This means that we have demonstrated that we have high quality health and safety systems in place. Well done to our team and dedicated SHEQ Manager on their commitment to Health and Safety.


    And just like that, 2022 is coming to a close. And what a year it has been!  We would like to take the opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support throughout 2022. We look forward to continuing to supply you with our industry-leading products and trusted services now and in the future. Wishing you and your team a safe and happy holiday season.


    This week on 15th - 17th November, we held the Ash Air Sales event. It was a fantastic opportunity for our sales team to come together, collaborate and take away new learnings and best practices. 


    As a provider of market-leading, industrial compressors across New Zealand, we recognised the need to have a software system that eliminated time-consuming paperwork, provided clear oversight and helped our staff become more time-efficient. As well as being environmentally and climate conscious!


    We believe that diversity and inclusion are business-critical drivers for our long-term success. Here we chat to one of our diversity ambassadors, Natalie, and what a work week looks like for her.


    Here at Ash Air, we are passionate about understanding our customers and we have helped them save costs on their compressed air and vacuum systems.Today Ash Air is trusted by more than 5,500 businesses, large and small, all over New Zealand.Learn what our customers have to say about us in this article.


    In our connected and changing world itโ€™s essential to keep learning and upskilling ourselves. We have a culture that actively promotes continuous learning. Here at Ash Air, we focus on face to face hands-on trainings with our services engineers, and national sales conferences that bring our team from all corners of the country together to support their continuous competence development.


    Congratulations to the new owner of a #chicagopneumatic 2.5HP #aircompressor, from South Auckland. Erikk from Ultra Laser Cutting was thrilled to have walked away with a brand new compressor for his workshop after visiting us at the EMEX 2022 trade show and scanning his details with our team for more information.


    Ash Air have provided our services to Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) for more than 10 years. In 2019, MIT decided to move their technical departments from Otara and Mahunga Drive Campuses to their new facility in Manukau City Centre. The new facility at Manukau was designed specifically for Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Automobile and Marine Engineering departments.


    The team at Ash Air are passionate about supporting the continuity of your business 24/7; supporting all aspects of your compressed air and vacuum systems, with second-to-none service for all brands. Consistently working towards providing absolute compressed air performance for your operations, we couldn't achieve this without an intregal part of the formula: our ever-important Service Planners!


    In Ash Air we encourage curiosity and creativity and believe that everyone has the opportunity to learn, every day. To celebrate our culture of continuous learning. This year, we were proud to be involved with the #NeverStopLearning Festival, aimed to give inspiration and learning opportunities in various forms., 


    And that's a wrap! Ash Air attended EMEX 2022, recently held on Tuesday 31st May - Thursday 2nd June, situated in Hall 2, stand #2020. It was an epic three days, with a team of regional sales engineers answering questions and meeting many new prospective and current customers...



    #AshAirTeam Coming Together For Ukraine. We'd like to show our appreciation and give thanks to our team for coming together in recognition and support in regards to the situation in Ukraine.


    Thursday 28th April is World Day for Safety and Health at Work and Workers' Memorial Day. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on how to prevent work-related occupational diseases, deaths, injuries, and illnesses! Learn how Ash Air recognised the day. 


    In 2022 XPO is excited to celebrate more than 40 years of EMEX, New Zealand's largest tradeshow for the engineering, manufacturing technology and electronics sectors. This will be our biggest show on record and has received strong media coverage showcasing business transformation since 1980. From Number 8 wire to space freight, EMEX has showcased it all. Proving just how far technology and prowess have come in New Zealandโ€™s manufacturing and engineering sectors. 
    Ash Air is attending in 2022, May 31st - 2nd June, and you will find us at stand #2020. We will have regional engineers at this event, educating and sharing our offering to our customers.