This week, Women in Solar Europe (WiSEu) gives the voice to Soledad Andrade, Business Development and Operations Specialist at the Spanish Youdera. She says that in the early days, she was often the only woman at meetings or site visits, making it harder to prove her worth. However, as more women join the sector, it has become a more comfortable and supportive environment for development and growth.
Moving into the solar industry from another sector has been a rewarding but challenging journey, with a mix of opportunities and obstacles. Initially it was a challenge to balance the specific technical demands of the solar industry with the diverse skills I had acquired in my previous roles. It took time and effort to align my previous experiences with the objectives set for my new role.
The solar industry has traditionally been male-dominated, which presents unique challenges for women. In my early days, I was often the only woman at meetings or site visits, which made it harder to prove my worth. However, as more women join the sector, it has become a more comfortable and supportive environment for development and growth.
Distributed energy enables small-scale production closer to where it is consumed, leading to a lower impact on the environment. This model differs significantly from traditional energy generation and requires innovative approaches for success. In the distributed solar industry, diverse perspectives lead to more creative solutions and a deeper understanding of a market that needs solutions for all genders. Promoting diversity and inclusion by developing specific training and adding value to more diverse ideas and proposals not only creates a more equitable work environment, but also increases the company’s ability to address the complex challenges of distributed generation.
Policymakers are focused on accelerating the energy transition to mitigate climate change, leading to challenges such as labor shortages and skills bottlenecks. This increases the need for diverse insights and skills that transcend gender. Women can contribute as skilled workers, but they should not limit themselves to administrative positions; they need to have access to quality jobs and greater exposure to industry networks. The emergence of new technologies and digitalization are disrupting traditional employment patterns, forcing companies and industry to anticipate this trend.
To encourage more women to enter and excel in the industry, companies must promote inclusive cultures that value diversity and ensure women have equal opportunities for advancement and leadership roles. Addressing perceived gaps in technical knowledge through comprehensive training programs can help women gain the necessary skills and knowledge for success in technical roles.
Implementing mentorship programs to support women’s professional development is also critical. Experienced mentors can provide guidance, support and inspiration, helping women develop their skills and confidence. This mentorship can create a cycle where successful women motivate and inspire others to enter the field.
Being a woman in the solar industry is about more than creating your own career; it’s about contributing to a sustainable future. It is important to work in a field that aligns with your values and allows you to make a meaningful impact. Faced with major environmental problems, it is incredibly satisfying to be part of the solution in your daily work.
It is an industry that is constantly changing and requires continuous training and acquisition of new skills as you understand the business better. Incorporating diversity is key to a more sustainable and cohesive work environment and to better results and solutions for a sustainable future in business and for women in the sector.
With more than 10 years of experience in international sales and customer service, I am passionate about digital transformation and renewable energy. Originally from Ecuador and now based in Spain, where I have worked in government programs and in international business. I currently work as a Business Developer and Operations Specialist for Youdera, where I focus on accelerating and promoting distributed energy. My goal is to contribute to a sustainable future by increasing the acceptance of sustainable energy solutions and improving operational efficiency within the organization.
Interested in participating Soledad Andrade and other female leaders and industry experts at Women in Solar Europe? Find out more: www.wiseu.network
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