The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and the Global Women’s Network for the Energy Transition (GWNET) have announced the participants for the third edition of their jointly organised Women in Wind Global Leadership Program.
The participants in the program, which aims to enhance gender diversity across the wind sector, have been selected out of a diverse applicant pool of over 200 people from across a variety of countries, disciplines and sectors in the wind industry.
GWEC and GWNET have selected 15 participants from 11 countries to take part in the year-long program that focuses on providing training, mentorship, and fostering knowledge and skills-sharing to advance the participants’ careers to leadership roles.
Participants of the Women in Wind Global Leadership Program 2021 are nationals or residents of Peru, India, Spain, South Africa, Philippines, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Kenya, Russia and Turkey.
GWEC head of policy and projects Joyce Lee said: “As wind power continues its growth into new and existing markets, we must strengthen our efforts towards mainstreaming diversity and inclusions across the wind industry to shape a dynamic and competitive workforce that can drive innovation and accelerate the energy transition.
“Globally, the wind sector is still male dominated, but the growing interest from companies and individuals alike to participate in the Women in Wind program demonstrates the growing support around our vision of a more diverse and inclusive industry.”
GWNET executive director Christine Lins said: “We are thrilled to have received over double the volume of applications in 2021 compared to last year, especially during a time when the pandemic hampered efforts towards gender equality in many sectors.
“The profiles of the applicants we received this year were very impressive, and it is inspiring to see so many women across the world working to accelerate the global energy transition.
“With 15 new participants this year, we look forward to continue empowering women professionals and supporting their career advancement to leadership positions.”
Vestas Wind Systems assistant lead engineer and 2021 Women in Wind participant Nibedita Sahoo said: “The Women in Wind program is a great platform to network with wind industry leaders from various disciplines and cultures, and to gain a better understanding of wind power’s expansion globally.
“I look forward to sharing my experiences with other participants, learning strategies, and supporting each other in our journey. Let’s dream big together.”
Mainstream Renewable Power project manager and project participant Andrea Cornejo said: “I am excited about meeting women professionals who have made their own path into the wind industry workforce.
“I look forward to developing new skills and taking new challenges, which will allow me to contribute to the growth of the wind industry and to encourage more women and men to collaborate and get rid of gaps, fears and bias.”
Ocean Winds communications manager and project participant Carmen Maria Cortes Belaunde said: “Being part of Women in Wind is a great opportunity to connect with key professionals in the wind sector, to be able to share experiences, learn best practices and build an enriching network that will allow me to boost my career in the wind sector and help improve the results of my company.”
EWI Group wind manager Europe and project participant Patricia de Vicente said: “Throughout my last three years working as a Wind Specialist Recruiter, I have only signed one contract for a woman and all my placements have been male.
“Women in Wind will be a great opportunity to network with women professionals in the industry and share best practices.”