Evolution Free Zone plants 170 native trees to reinforce habitat for flora and fauna species in the western part of the country
13 de June de 2024
The Benefit of Teaming Up with a Global Partner in the Value Chain
22 de July de 2024
Breaking Paradigms: The Value of Gender Equity in Engineering
June 2024. The participation of women in STEM companies has been a key factor for innovation and commercial success. The opportunities own by women in this field have played a crucial role ensuring a diverse and dynamic market that fosters progress and general well-being.
Additionally, according to an estimate by the World Bank, the presence of woman in STEM careers would lead to more equitable decision-making and substantial economic growth, potentially increasing the global GDP by 20%.
A Success Story
Inari Medical, the renowned American medical devices company, will soon begin operations in Evolution Free Zone, Costa Rica. They have chosen Pilar González as their leader, a successful Costa Rican engineer who assumes the role of General Manager and aims to positively impact the lives of everyone with whom she works.
Over 20 years ago, I started studying Industrial Engineering at the University of Costa Rica. The wonderful factor about it is that you have the opportunity to have numerous achievements across different industries. During those years, I did realize my passion for advancing in the healthcare sector.
From a young age I was fortunate to be in a supportive environment, in particular with my mother, one of the first economists to graduate in this country. After 24 years in STEM fields, I can confidently say it has been a successful career, and I am very pleased.”
Empowering Women in Engineering to Build a Dynamic Future
Currently, more and more women are entering the field, thanks to initiatives that allow them to balance their professional careers and their family life. Globally, the proportion of women graduating in engineering is increasing, currently at 20%, with a noticeable growth in leadership positions. In Costa Rica, according to the Federated Professional Association of Engineers and Architects, female representation in engineering stands at 23.82%, highlighting a momentum towards inclusivity and professional advancement for women in this dynamic field.
I consider myself privileged to have had many mentors who helped me succeed. Being a woman in this industry also means making decisions about family and career. It is a misconception that you cannot succeed in both areas. Support from your network and a caregiving system is crucial, and organizations should offer options and support to women in this situation. My experience proves that success is possible in both personal and professional aspects. As a leader, I encourage others to open doors for women from a young age. How? By influencing schools with programs and visits to our organizations, so they can experience how fun and accessible STEM careers can be and the impact they can have on society.”
Evolution Free Zone, as a park promoting innovation, technology, and access to quality jobs, is committed to gender equity. We promote opportunities among the community and companies operating in the Park, complemented by the literacy conditions of Costa Rica. Every interconnected effort makes impacts and enhances quality of life.
Advice from Engineer to Engineer
The key is in diversification and learning from different sectors, which will help open more doors and opportunities. Do not confine yourself to a single area; do not let shyness hold you back; instead, seek new challenges, because they make us grow.
As a healthcare enthusiast, I invite you to join the industry. The medical cluster in Costa Rica has a significant impact on improving people’s quality of life, and there is nothing more rewarding than knowing that every day of your work helps to save lives.”
About International Women in Engineering Day
Recognized by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) since 2014, International Women in Engineering Day (June 23) does celebrate the valuable contributions of women in engineering, their search for gender equality, and their essential role in the technological and scientific advancement of society.
