- Can you tell us a little about your career path and what led you to your current position?
With a degree in Industrial Systems Engineering and Management, I've been working as a project manager in operational excellence for just over 7 years.
My soft skills in cross-functional management have enabled me to work in Canada (in Industrial Logistics), Western Europe (in Lean Manufacturing) and more recently for three years in China (in Methods and Operational Excellence);
Today, I am passionate about my job as industrialization project manager in the field of robotics.
- How do you see the role of women in your sector or in your company?
In the industrial sector, we only represent 25% to 30% of the payroll. In my current position, I'm the only woman in a team of 30.
Yet women play a crucial role in industry; our perspective is different from that of men, and I firmly believe that this diversity of vision can make a positive contribution to innovation in industry.
Although progress has been made, ongoing efforts are needed to promote equal opportunities and ensure balanced gender representation. Encouraging girls to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and creating inclusive working environments are important steps to ensuring the industry's long-term success.
- What are the main lessons you've learned from your experiences as a woman in the workplace?
In an environment where the presence of women is still uncommon, I've found that our integration is generally welcomed. In fact, I often see being a woman as an advantage rather than an obstacle. Our unique perspective and specific skills are increasingly valued and contribute to enriching teams and projects. You have to trust yourself.
- How do you think we can encourage more women to take up leadership positions in our company or in our sector?
I firmly believe that to encourage more women to take up leadership positions in industry, we need to start by raising awareness at an early age. It's crucial to steer young girls towards careers traditionally seen as masculine, and to show them that they have just as much a place in these fields. What's more, it's essential to deconstruct the gender stereotypes associated with certain professions. By eliminating the prejudices that discourage women from pursuing industrial careers, we can create a more inclusive environment and pave the way for greater diversity of leadership in our sector.
- Are there any women who have inspired you throughout your career? If so, can you tell us more about them and the impact they've had on you?
Throughout my career, I've been inspired by many remarkable women who share similar character traits. They are all fighters, dynamic, resilient, intelligent and radiant. Their determination and energy have had a profound influence on me, motivating me to pursue my own goals with passion and perseverance. Each of them has had a significant impact on me, inspiring me to develop my skills, take on challenges and believe in my potential to achieve my career aspirations.
- Why do you think gender diversity is important for a company?
Gender diversity is important for a company because it fosters innovation, improves decision-making and boosts performance. By valuing gender diversity, companies can create an inclusive and dynamic working environment that benefits all its members.
By bringing together a variety of viewpoints, we can achieve a more complete and informed consensus, strengthening decision-making and promoting balanced collective success.
- What advice would you give to young women aspiring to succeed in your field?
Believe in your skills, talents and potential. Be confident in your ability to succeed, and don't let self-doubt hold you back on your career path.
Above all, pursue your passions: Identify your areas of interest and passion in the industry and pursue them with determination. When you work in a field you're passionate about, you're more likely to succeed and achieve your goals.
- How do you plan to contribute to the promotion of women's rights in your company or community?
As a woman working in my company and in my community, I'm aware of the complexity and diversity of the challenges facing women in different contexts. I'm convinced of the importance of raising awareness of women's rights issues among my colleagues and those around me, even if this means breaking certain taboos. However, I recognize the need to approach these issues with great sensitivity, taking into account cultural and social diversities, in order to encourage open and respectful dialogue.
Armadillo V.
