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Women in Wind 2024: Insights into This Year’s Applicants
With the second highest year for applications, the Women in Wind Global Leadership Program has attracted a diverse and talented group of professionals from around the world for the class of 2024. These individuals come from varied backgrounds, possess unique expertise, and share a common dedication to advancing the wind energy sector. Here are some key insights from this year’s cohort:
Geographic Diversity
The 193 applicants represent various countries, underscoring the program’s global appeal. For instance, participants applied from the Philippines, Turkey, Argentina, and more. This diversity enhances the learning experience and promotes a global network of professionals committed to wind energy. The program received applications from a total of 33 nations, with Brazil, India, and Kenya leading in application numbers.
Educational Background
The educational qualifications of the participants are impressive. The cohort includes individuals with advanced degrees such as PhDs and Masters. For example, one participant from Ethiopia holds a PhD, while another from Brazil has a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Brazil (Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro).
Professional Experience
The data showcases a diverse array of professionals with extensive experience, ranging from entry-level positions to senior management and executive roles. Notably, many individuals have accrued over a decade of experience, indicating a deep-rooted commitment to the industry. Furthermore, many of the applicants have professional experience in technical roles. Key roles include engineers focusing on high voltage and micrositing, carbon senior specialists, senior managers, project leaders, business development experts, sales professionals, and regulatory and legal advisors. The presence of academics, researchers, and consultants underscores the sector’s emphasis on innovation and compliance. With a global footprint and sectoral diversity, these professionals drive advancements in wind regulatory aspects, reflecting a robust commitment to sustainable energy development and operational efficiency.
Areas of Expertise and Interest
The cohort’s areas of expertise are diverse, covering multiple facets of the wind energy industry. Some of the key areas of expertise include:
In terms of areas of interest, participants are keen on exploring both onshore and offshore wind markets, particularly in regions like Latin America and the Caribbean.
Goals and Aspirations
Many applicants showcased clear and ambitious goals for joining the Women in Wind Global Leadership Program. Many aim to connect with seasoned professionals, seek guidance on transitioning from academia to industry, and build a supportive network with fellow women in the sector. For instance, one participant expressed a desire to learn, network, and contribute to enhancing diversity and inclusivity within the wind energy sector.
My objectives are to learn and exchange experiences with other women who also have professional experiences in the energy market and people management; to better understand the market and the gender context in different regions of the world, as well as to participate in discussions about the energy transition, seeking connections and partnerships.
Wind industry is the most wanted renewable industry. Within this domain, surviving and climbing up the professional ladder is a major challenge for women. I would like to join Women in Wind Global Leadership Program to enhance my skills and expertise in this industry, develop essential leadership qualities like communication, decision making, strategic thinking build a strong professional network (by connecting with industry experts and mentors)
seek empowerment and encouragement to overcome obstacles in the career serve as role model myself by joining this forum, inspiring future women engineers to pursue career in renewable sector.
I am seeking to enhance my leadership skills, learn new strategies for effective management, and develop my ability to lead teams and projects within the wind energy sector.
I have been passed over for promotions over male counterparts as Energy is perceived to be a 'male' area due to the technical nature. This has been despite my depth of understanding in the industry and commitment to growth of the sector.
For me this is evidence of a hidden bias as women are expected to handle the more relationship and administrative tasks in the field and not progress to more strategic and decision making roles in the industry.
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Challenges and Role Models
Gender-related challenges are a common theme among the participants’ experiences. One participant shared a particularly impactful challenge faced during a college internship search, highlighting the need for greater gender inclusivity in the industry. Role models in the industry play a crucial role in inspiring and guiding these professionals. Participants look up to seasoned professionals who have made significant contributions to the wind energy sector.
Mentorship and Guidance
The participants recognize the value of mentorship in their professional development. They seek guidance in various areas of their careers, including transitioning from academia to industry, identifying essential skills, and understanding suitable roles for their professional profiles.
Conclusion
The class of 2024 of the Women in Wind Global Leadership Program is a testament to the growing interest and commitment towards gender diversity in the wind energy sector. The diverse backgrounds, expertise, and aspirations of the participants promise a vibrant and enriching experience for all involved. As these professionals embark on their journey, they are poised to make significant contributions to the wind energy industry and drive the sector towards a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Women in Wind Progress Partner
Suzlon Group is among the world’s leading renewable energy solutions provider that is revolutionising and redefining the way sustainable energy sources are harnessed across the world. Presence in 17 countries across Asia, Australia, Europe, Africa and the Americas, Suzlon is powering a greener tomorrow with its strong competencies in renewable energy systems. Suzlon’s extensive range of robust and reliable products backed by its cutting-edge R&D and more than two decades of expertise are designed to ensure optimum performance, higher yields and maximum return on investment for the customers.
Sustainable development is the creed that underpins Suzlon’s bespoke initiatives to protect the environment, strengthen communities and propel responsible growth. Suzlon is headquartered at One Earth – Pune, which is a Platinum LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) certified and GRIHA 5 star rated campus and is also among the greenest corporate campuses in the world.
Program Delivery Partners
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