AeronauticsWomen@ALTEN: Insights on leadership and diversity in STEM
Women@ALTEN held an inspirational evening discussing leadership and the challenges of thriving in a male-dominated industry. During the evening, six inspiring professionals shared their experiences, challenges and best practices of succeeding in a male-dominated industry in an interesting panel discussion.
Organised by our Women@ALTEN Community, this inspirational event opened the floor for anyone eager to meet and learn from female perspectives within STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) fields. Our six panellists brought various perspectives, advice, and experiences of leadership and how it is to work within a male-dominated field. In addition to our internal employees, students from a local university were also invited to take part in the discussion and together inspire the next generation of female engineers.
In the discussion, all six panellists agreed that even though a lot of work has already been done, there are still some challenges women face within the STEM fields. All six panellists acknowledged that we are on the right path towards a more equal industry, and we all can work towards this goal. One of the key messages was to constantly remind yourself of the strength you have as a woman, even in those moments when you meet self-doubt or doubt from others.
“We need to remember that we are strong, as individuals, and as a group, and we should believe in ourselves. We don’t have to yell; just be confident and aware of our strong sides.” Natalia Saez Perez, Consultant at ALTEN
One of the key messages communicated by the panellists to women working in the STEM field, and students, was to use being a minority as an advantage, and to utilise that in working life. Often, this aspect is forgotten and is rather seen as a weakness instead of using it as an advantage.
“As a woman in a room full of men, you will stick out more and be seen. Women can bring another perspective on topics and increase knowledge by bridging conversations between different areas. We also add value when we have more diverse teams.”
Isabel Azcarate, Consultant at ALTEN
All panellists agreed that diversity in teams is vital, and progress comes through open dialogue, shared experiences, and collective support. Everyone has a role in supporting women in STEM fields, and it’s essential to work together, help one another, and to network.
At ALTEN, we are committed to increasing interest in engineering and IT among women to promote a more gender-equal industry. Our internal network, Women@ALTEN, empowers employees to strengthen women’s positions in STEM, serve as role models, and inspire the next generation through different events and collaborations with local universities.
Read more about the network here