Dreamers & Makers

Graduated in industrial engineering with mechanical specialization and master’s degree in aeronautical technologies, Janire works as Engineering Development manager and technical responsible in Space projects in our office in Bilbao (Spain).

We talked to her on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

What do you think the biggest challenge for women is right now? What role should society play? What do you think are the key aspects to speed up equality between men and women?

From my point of view, the biggest challenge for women today is dealing with the biases that continue to exist due to the ingrained prejudices in society. Each of us can play a role in our position to eliminate these biases.

In my opinion, speeding up the process is challenging. The foundation is properly educating the new generations. That’s why, as I said, it’s up to each of us to contribute through our actions, whether professional or personal.

In my case, as a woman in STEAM, I have participated as a mentor in the INSPIRA program. This program aims to promote interest in science and technology among young people, especially girls. It also seeks to shine a light on the stereotypes that exist in society so they don’t condition the decisions of young students when choosing a field of study.

Although we’re still in the minority, there is an increasing awareness of the importance of gender inclusion in STEAM.

What are the challenges and opportunities that women face when they reach the professional field?

Certain professions and roles remain stereotyped by gender. Engineering has historically been one of them. I remember a female university professor told us once what it was like to study engineering at the time. She was the only woman, and one professor even refused to teach her. Luckily, we’ve moved past that and although we’re still in the minority, there is an increasing awareness of the importance of gender inclusion in STEAM.

As for your story, what attracted you to your profession? In what areas would you like to keep advancing, what challenges have you set for yourself?

I’ve always liked science. However, choosing what branch of science to go into wasn’t at all easy. At first, I chose electives that left the door to both medicine and technology open. I eventually decided to study engineering. Again, when in doubt, I chose industrial engineering, since it touches on a number of branches, and you choose what to specialize in when you do your master’s.

In the next few years, I’m sure that Sener will be involved in new and interesting challenges, in which I would like to work and continue learning. As well as continuing to grow as an engineer. As a manager, I hope to guide young engineers in their professional development.

Finally, what advice would you give to a teenage girl or young woman who is starting her career? A woman who inspired you?

My advice for a teen deciding what to study is to pursue what she loves, to get advice from people she looks up to, but to give priority to her own preferences.

To those starting their career, I would say to stay open to continuous learning and seek mentors to guide their professional growth. And above all, to strike a balance between work and play.