Gender has never defined the boundaries of capability. 

At ALTEN China, women make up approximately 40% of the workforce, a figure that reflects the diversity and inclusiveness of our workplace culture. As International Women"s Day (IWD) approaches, we listen to the voices of our female engineers, who, with exceptional professionalism, quietly carve out their unique roles in the STEM field. Through their personal journeys, they write the answer to the question: "There are no limits for engineers."

STEM — My Profession, My Choice 

01/ Why Choose the STEM Field?

May  Electrical Engineer at ALTEN China

Electricity is the cornerstone that drives modern society, and electrical engineering is the “framework” that supports this foundation. From everyday household appliances to industrial equipment, electrical engineering is applied in almost every field, silently supporting the operation of modern life. It is both practical, meeting the demands of the present, and full of limitless possibilities for the future. I have an undeniable passion for science, and this devotion has guided me into this field. I hope to find my own starry sea in this vast world.

Miriam  Data Scientist at ALTEN China

My story is a bit different. Initially, I took a path that wasn’t truly mine. In university, I followed my family’s expectations and studied accounting, but after a few years in the field, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Back in school, I was the math class representative and always had an undeniable connection and passion for numbers and logic. Before turning 30, I decided to pursue a Master"s in Data Science to redefine my career. I’ve now been working in data science for three years, with my daily tasks focusing on coding and data analysis. My passion has only grown stronger, and I’m grateful for the choice I made, as it has enabled me to contribute to industry progress through technology.

How do women in the workplace perceive female power?

02/ In male-dominated fields, has your gender been a hurdle or an advantage?

May Electrical Engineer at ALTEN China

My challenges are no different from those of male engineers. Technical expertise is the ultimate currency. Once, I traveled alone to troubleshoot equipment at a remote factory. The client didn’t care about my gender—they respected my skills.

Miriam Data Scientist at ALTEN China

As the only woman on my team, I’ve faced subtle biases. For instance, male colleagues’ ideas are often prioritized, and some still question women’s logical abilities. But diversity of thought is critical in data science. Gender-balanced teams bring fresh perspectives.

Emphasizing the genuine strength of professionalism, beyond gender concerns.

03/ What do you think are the reasons for the relatively low proportion of female employees in STEM fields?

May  Electrical Engineer at ALTEN China

"Boys are better at science than girls." This was a remark my high school physics teacher openly made in class, even though she herself was a woman. Such biases, like invisible seeds, quietly take root in the hearts of many girls, influencing their career choices. If educators could shed these heavy stereotypes, perhaps more girls would dare to cross that invisible threshold and step into the vast world of STEM.

Miriam  Data Scientist at ALTEN China

Social prejudice, family expectations, and workplace pressures create an inescapable web that surrounds every woman. They are expected to bear family responsibilities while fighting in a high-intensity work environment, and the STEM field demands countless days and nights of persistence and dedication. However, with a lack of female role models, many future generations often feel lost in their choices, unable to find reliable direction and support. As a result,  these paths become increasingly rugged, and the choices grow more difficult.

Power of Role Models – Women in STEM

04/ Who is the female scientist or engineer you admire?

Miriam  Data Scientist at ALTEN China

Research led me to forgotten pioneers like Ada Lovelace, a 19th-century mathematician who wrote the first computer program. Her achievements in an era hostile to women in science are legendary.

Advice for Women in STEM

05/ What advice for women entering STEM?

May  Electrical Engineer at ALTEN China

Stay curious and keep learning. Technology evolves fast—only solid expertise ensures longevity.

Miriam  Data Scientist at ALTEN China

Trust yourself and drown out the noise. Find mentors, join communities, and build alliances. Progress is faster when we walk together.

Workplace Insights | Breaking Barriers

ALTEN China surveyed 300+ female engineers on gender inclusivity in STEM. Studies show diverse teams design better solutions for diverse needs. That’s why we need more women—especially those from varied backgrounds—in STEM fields. 

Corporate Responsibility 

According to the Simon Azoulay, Chair & CEO of ALTEN Group, the position of women in the industry is a real societal issue. At ALTEN, we are working to raise awareness and persuade women to join technical and scientific fields. Aware of this challenge, ALTEN Group is actively working to encourage young women to pursue careers in engineering by:  

1. Working to change the perception of industry’s image in the eyes of the generations to come, particularly young women.

2. Guaranteeing equal opportunities for women and men throughout their career paths. 

3. Promoting a healthy work-life balance for all. 

4. Aiming for a well-balanced representation of women and men in our workforce. 

5. Encouraging women’s access to managerial positions.