Women Who Weigh In: Voices from the Industrial Sector

For decades, the industrial sector has been predominantly male-driven. However, in recent years, the presence of women in this field has been steadily increasing. According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE) in Spain, women currently represent 28.1% of the workforce in the industrial sector, with 1,640,600 women employed out of a total of 5,835,200 workers. While this percentage has remained stable over the past four years, the challenge remains to increase female representation and ensure equal opportunities in the field.

This International Women’s Day, we are amplifying the voices of women who are shaping the industrial sector. From leadership roles to technical positions, they share their experiences, insights, and messages for the next generation of women in the field.

Insights from Women in the Industry: Challenges and Leadership

“This statistic highlights a structural issue that isn’t improving on its own, which means the industry needs to take a more active role in changing it. The underrepresentation of women in the industrial sector is not just about hiring—it’s about a lack of visibility, access, and long-term career opportunities.”

Shanna Hermann, Co-CEO

According to Shanna, one of the biggest challenges women face in the industrial sector is perception. “Industrial work is still seen as a male-dominated field, which discourages young women from considering it as a career path. Another issue is the lack of role models in leadership positions, which makes it harder for women to see a future for themselves in the sector.”

She also highlights that leadership diversity remains a key barrier, as hiring and promotions are rarely neutral. “People tend to hire those they feel more comfortable with, whether that’s in gender, age, or background. And as long as most decision-makers are men, that cycle keeps repeating itself unless we actively break it.”

While large corporations often implement quotas to force change, in smaller companies like Gram Group, gender diversity depends largely on available talent. “We don’t hire based on gender, but we do pay attention to making sure women have the same career opportunities as men.”

For real change to happen, companies must take an active role in promoting industrial careers to young women, ensuring fair and transparent hiring and promotion processes, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. “At Gram Group, we believe innovation comes from diverse perspectives. The more we actively work toward equity, the more we strengthen our industry as a whole. Success shouldn’t be tied to a single leadership style—everyone should be able to lead in their own way, as long as it is respectful and authentic.”

Shifting Mindsets in the Industrial Sector

“The mentality of people is something that is more difficult to change, especially in traditionally male-dominated environments. Discrimination might happen during the recruitment process, in horizontal or vertical relationships within the company. Fortunately, more and more companies recognize women as fully valid members of their staff, even in leadership position. It is a joint task for parents, educators, employers and law-makers”

Iga Kulig, HR Administration

Iga points out that achieving true gender equity in the industrial sector requires more than just legal changes; it’s about shifting generations-old mentalities. “We can change laws quickly and seek theoretical equality, but real transformation takes time—it’s a work of generations.”

Breaking Barriers in Technical Roles

“I have always been fascinated by how things work and how technology can improve industrial processes. Since I was a child, I was curious about electronic devices, wanting to understand how they functioned.”

Estefanía Barneto, SAT/Tech Support

Estefanía emphasizes that the demand for skilled professionals in electronics is high, but not many pursue this path, making it a great opportunity for women who are passionate about technology. “I want my experience to serve as a message of hope for those who may encounter difficulties along the way. If one place does not value you, there is always the possibility of changing and finding the right environment.”

Her message to young women interested in industrial technology or engineering is clear: “We live in a time where stereotypes no longer define which jobs are for men or women. If you are passionate about a profession, have a good attitude, and work hard, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to.”

Encouraging Future Generations

“The participation of women in the industrial sector has been increasing, but there is still a gap since the industry has historically been male-dominated. Women have gained ground, especially in fields like engineering and technology, thanks to equality policies and specialized training programs.”

Nieves González, Customer Support

Nieves emphasizes the importance of continuing to foster inclusion and career development within the industry. “It is essential to keep creating opportunities and supporting professional growth so that everyone, men and women alike, have the same chances to advance.”

Her advice to young women interested in the industrial sector: “Do not be afraid to explore all the opportunities this sector offers. The industrial field is diverse and full of potential in areas like engineering, technology, logistics, and design. It is crucial to keep learning, join internship programs, and never let stereotypes or prejudices hold you back.”

Driving Change for an Inclusive Future

The industrial sector is evolving, and the role of women within it is becoming more prominent than ever. As more women enter the field, break barriers, and redefine expectations, the industry will only become stronger and more inclusive.

On this International Women’s Day, we recognize the resilience, contributions, and leadership of women in the industrial sector. Their voices are shaping the future, challenging norms, and paving the way for the generations to come. The journey toward true equity is ongoing, but every step forward brings us closer to a more diverse, innovative, and inclusive industry.