Today, we celebrate the phenomenal achievements of women worldwide – their social impact, economic power, cultural brilliance, and powerful political voices. But it’s also a call to action: a time to recommit to accelerating gender equality.
This year’s theme, Inspire Inclusion, reminds us that building a more equitable future requires everyone’s participation. To spark that action, we asked our amazing female colleagues, what motivated them to pursue a STEM career, how does diversity fuel innovation in this field, and what advice would they give to girls considering a path in STEM.
Deborah, Qualification & Validation Manager
What motivated you to pursue a career in STEM?
When I was a child, I was always curious about how things worked and enjoyed experimenting and solving problems. As I got older, I realized that I had the ability and motivation to pursue a career in STEM. With the support of my parents, I decided to study engineering. Today, I have no regrets about my decision. I enjoy my job and profession, and I am constantly learning and growing professionally.
What advice do you have for other women interested in STEM careers?
Don’t let social stereotypes keep you from pursuing the career that speaks to you. Our gender does not define our abilities. There is a growing demand for professionals in STEM fields. We live in a world of constant technological and scientific advancements and need experts willing to keep learning and adapting.
Fatimah, Technical Manager
What motivated you to pursue a career in STEM?
The motivation behind my pursuit of a career in STEM is driven by three key factors: learning and growth, challenge, and impact. I enjoy working on complex projects and exploring new areas, such as calibration, to solve problems in a constantly evolving field. Challenges that lead to learning opportunities are particularly appealing, such as the experience of becoming a Trescal Institute trainer, which boosted my knowledge and confidence. Lastly, the industry’s role in ensuring accurate measurements for everything in daily life is highly motivating.
What advice do you have for other women interested in STEM careers?
Find a great mentor who will encourage and support you. Then, an interest in this industry will come naturally to you.
Marie-Zoé, Chief of Staff
How does diversity fuel innovation in STEM fields?
Encouraging girls to pursue careers in science is a challenge faced globally. The industry’s growth and future largely depend on our ability to think innovatively and beyond conventional methods. By embracing diversity and empowering girls in STEM, we can help to solve recruiting challenges and bring different perspectives to the industry, which can lead to breakthroughs in scientific fields.
What advice do you have for other women interested in STEM careers?
My grandmother was a pioneer in her time as she was the first French woman to join a nuclear laboratory in Lyon during the early 20th century. Even today, as women, we often find ourselves paving the way for future generations by breaking stereotypes, instilling confidence, and thinking outside the box. As Marie Curie once said, “Be less curious about people and more curious about ideas”.
Grace, Apprentice Engineer
What motivated you to pursue a career in STEM?
During school, we had many STEM days, some of which were to try and encourage women to pursue STEM subjects further. I was encouraged by the teachers and participated in activities for INWED (International Women in Engineering Day). Sometimes, it helps being autistic, as I have never really cared about gender norms. If someone tells me I can’t do something, I am more motivated to prove them wrong. During GCSEs, I made friends with other girls who took engineering or other STEM subjects, and we all supported each other and helped each other to do better.
What advice do you have for other women interested in STEM industries?
There’s no reason anyone shouldn’t do what they want within reason. If someone is interested in STEM, they should go for it. It’s important to ask questions, work hard and think outside the box.
Karolina, UK & Ireland General Manager
How does diversity fuel innovation in STEM fields?
It is important to have diversity in engineering because we are problem solvers. Engineers work in the world to solve a whole lot of problems and you have to have diverse opinions and backgrounds to create the kind of environment where extraordinary things happen.
What advice do you have for other women interested in STEM careers?
Believe in yourself. STEM industries can sometimes feel intimidating, but remember, your talent and potential are just as valid as anyone else’s. Secondly, embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Anna, Calibration Technician
What motivated you to pursue a career in STEM?
I am motivated by the desire to solve complex problems, innovate, create new technologies and make a positive impact on society by improving people’s lives and revolutionizing industries.
What advice do you have for other women interested in STEM careers?
Try to find female engineering mentors who can offer guidance and support as you advance in your career. Accept challenges, they are the ones that give us the opportunity to grow and learn. Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions and defend your ideas.
Amélie, Marketing & Communications Director
How does diversity fuel innovation in STEM fields?
STEM relies on the advancement of knowledge and that is only possible by taking into account different ways of thinking. Diversity brings a fresh perspective so we can break barriers, whether for STEM or inclusivity, together.
What advice do you have for other women interested in STEM careers?
Go for it.
