Accelerating Action: Women in STEM and the power of taking initiative

International Women’s Day highlights both progress and persistent challenges in achieving gender equality. In technology and engineering fields, women still represent less than 30% of professionals worldwide, making initiatives that encourage participation in STEM more important than ever.

To mark this occasion, our Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Elisabete Mleczak shared her own journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the steps we can all take to empower women in the workplace.

Watch Elisabete share her journey and insights on accelerating action for women in STEM:

The power of action: A leadership perspective

For Elisabete Mleczak, Getronics’ Chief Commercial Officer, accelerating action means translating intention into real decisions that shape careers and organisations. Reflecting on her own career, she shared one of the best pieces of advice she ever received: “Sometimes when you are running, it’s good to take a moment to consider where you are going… I decided to invest in an MBA and I have been in leadership positions since.”

This mindset has shaped her journey, from overcoming challenges early in her career to taking on leadership roles in the tech industry. One pivotal moment, she recalls, was when she started mentoring others, helping guide them in their careers and holding up the mirror so they could see what she saw in them.

Mentorship, she notes, plays a critical role in helping women recognise their own potential. By supporting others and providing guidance early in their careers, leaders can help the next generation build confidence and navigate challenges in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Breaking barriers: Why women need role models in STEM

Visible role models play a crucial role in encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM. When young professionals see leaders who share similar backgrounds and experiences, it becomes easier to imagine themselves succeeding in those roles.

Percentage of women studying STEM in the UK (Source: STEM Women)

Elisabete emphasised the importance of encouraging more girls and women to enter the world of STEM, ensuring a future where more women can thrive in these fields.

“We need to get more girls in education to study science, technology, engineering and maths – for me, it all starts there. It certainly helped me get to where I am today because I studied engineering.”

Percentage of women in STEM at major tech companies (Source: Women Tech Network)

Advice for women in the workplace today

When asked what advice she would give to women navigating their careers, Elisabete highlighted three key points:

• Explore a career in tech – The tech industry offers independence and financial freedom that other industries may not. “Choosing to work in technology gave me a path to independence.”
• Don’t be so hard on yourself – Women often feel the need to do more just to prove they are just as good. “Believe in your ability and your ideas. If you’re in the room, you belong there.”
• Talk about your achievements – There is no shame in acknowledging your strengths and accomplishments. “It’s about trusting yourself and saying, "Look I’m competent and full of potential.”

As organisations continue to push for greater diversity in technology, initiatives that promote mentorship, education, and leadership opportunities for women will remain essential. Creating a more inclusive tech industry requires not only awareness, but consistent action from leaders, organisations, and communities alike.