International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Engineering as the link between logic and creativity in tesmec told by Chiara Cattaneo, Analyst & Data Engineer
Today we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science — a moment that reminds us how essential it is to ensure equal access to STEM disciplines and to recognize the fundamental contribution women bring to scientific, technological and engineering progress. This day was established by the United Nations to address the gender gap that still affects research and engineering fields worldwide, where women remain underrepresented. UNESCO and the UN continue to promote initiatives aimed at enabling full participation and equal opportunities in science and technology.
STEM & Innovation: a strategic pillar for Tesmec growth
STEM disciplines — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — are the backbone of the innovation driving Tesmec’s development in energy, critical infrastructure and railway mobility.To support the Group’s growth and attract new talents, Tesmec invests in career‑orientation activities, company visits for technical students, and internal training programs to strengthen scientific and technical competence.The significant presence of STEM‑educated professionals, especially in the railway division, reflects the company’s commitment to promoting highly specialized skills and fostering an environment where innovation and inclusion evolve together.
At Tesmec, we strongly believe in the value of STEM expertise and in the talent of the professionals who contribute every day to the growth of our Group.For this reason, today we share the perspective of Chiara Cattaneo — Analyst & Data Engineer.
What inspired you to pursue a STEM path and specifically engineering?
Some people discover their path early in life; others define it step by step. I belong to the second group. Every experience I had helped me understand what I was truly looking for in my professional journey.If I had to name what pushed me toward engineering, I would say: concreteness, structure, logic and creativity.I’m fascinated by the idea of living in the concreteness of things, giving order to what happens around us. Logic allows us to read reality and reorganize it in a creative way — that’s where I feel completely in my element.And Tesmec has given me the space to fully express this dimension.
What challenges have you encountered as a woman in a technical field, and how would you describe your experience at Tesmec?
Technical fields have historically been male‑dominated, and accessing or growing within them often requires an extra effort. Beyond explicit obstacles, the hardest challenge is sometimes proving your competence and the value you bring.At the same time, I perceive a cultural and generational shift — and I have experienced it personally at Tesmec.In my team there is trust, open dialogue and mutual support. These are the foundations of an effective team, regardless of individual or gender differences.
What message would you share with young women considering a scientific or technological path?
Skills have no gender. Everyone should feel free to try, without ruling out opportunities beforehand.
As Marie Curie once said: "We must believe that we are gifted for something, and that this thing must be attained." Knowledge is freedom, and STEM fields are where curiosity can turn into tangible impact.”