Get to Know Armstrong Queer Unity Alliance (AQUA)
Armstrong World Industries (AWI) is working towards more diversity and inclusion through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) like AQUA.
Armstrong World Industries (AWI) strives to create a workplace culture where all feel welcome, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. They believe making the company more diverse and inclusive is not just the right thing to do—it contributes to a stronger corporate culture and helps them better serve all customers and communities for a healthy tomorrow.
As part of this commitment, AWI offers volunteer-driven Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to provide space and opportunities for employees with a shared background or identity to connect.
Armstrong Queer Unity Alliance (AQUA) is a group of LGBTQ+ employees and allies who are dedicated to promoting career development, providing a secure space for expressing views, and encouraging LGBTQ+ employees to bring their authentic selves to the professional forefront.
Alexis Gessner, she/they
Marketing Manager, ProjectWorks®
AQUA Facilitator
“AQUA launched in fall 2023, and I am one of eight core group members that helped establish its mission, purpose, and strategic vision. Immediately following the launch, a host of employees reached out with gratitude and excitement about having access to LGBTQ+ related resources and education, and many employees expressed the desire to learn more about becoming a stronger ally, as they have friends and family members who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. As a member of the queer community myself, being part of AQUA has increased my confidence to bring my full, authentic self to Armstrong.”
Alexis Gessner
Jason E. Ilgenfritz, he/him
Senior CAD Technician, Architectural Specialities Group
AQUA Social & Member Chair
“Being a part of AQUA has allowed me to be involved with something that is personal to me and impacts the LGBTQ+ community inside AWI as well as outside. AWI’s ERGs give employees comfort in knowing their employer cares about being diverse and inclusive, and also gives those employees a place to come that is a safe space to express themselves and be supported.”
Jason E. Ilgenfritz
Other ERGs at Armstrong World Industries:
Black Organization of Leaders and Doers (BOLD) is dedicated to empowering Black individuals and others underrepresented in communities where the people of AWI live, work, learn, heal, and play.
Armstrong Women Achieving Real Excellence (AWARE) is committed to addressing the challenges women face in business and life while promoting the strength and power of women helping women.
Want to discover more local? Follow Fig on Instagram and Facebook for inspiration.
