The participation of women in Mexico’s energy sector is increasing, although it still faces significant challenges, as revealed at the “Women in Energy” forum held during the Third Edition of the Peninsular Electrical Expo organized by the Yucatecan Association of Electric Constructors (AYCE).
Statistics presented at the event show a mixed picture. On the one hand, the Federal Commission for Electricity (CFE) has increased the presence of women in leadership positions from 6% to 17%, a notable advancement over the years. However, only 26% of CFE’s 95,000 employees are women, compared to 74% men.
New Opportunities for Women in Renewable Energy
In the renewable energy sector, the situation is more encouraging. According to data shared by Aideé Zamora, National Coordinator of RedMerec, 32% of jobs in this area are held by women.
Despite this progress, a leadership gap persists: only 1% of Mexican companies in the energy sector are led by women. Comparison with the international landscape reveals that Mexico still has a long way to go. Karla Salinas, Market Manager of Hitachi Energy, noted that while women represent 40% of the labor force in the global energy sector, this figure barely reaches 16% in Mexico.
New Leadership in Yucatán CFE
In the appointments of directors for the two new combined-cycle plants of the Federal Commission for Electricity (CFE) set to start operations this year, there will be surprises in high-ranking positions and on the labor roster favoring women. This was reported by Nimbe Durán Telles, Head of Gender and Inclusion at CFE, during the presentation of the book “Women in Mexican Electrical Industry 2” at the Third Edition of the Peninsular Electrical Expo organized.
In addition to the hiring of women for these two new plants, one in Mérida and another in Valladolid, they will have adequate infrastructure such as bathrooms and areas for them. Until now, there are only 2 superintendents and supervisors in the country, but the “surprises” in director appointments for the two plants in Yucatán will change the labor landscape for women.
Durán Telles coordinated this second edition of the book, which brings together 61 stories of women told by themselves about their overcoming within the state-owned company, from various parts of the country.
At the panel organized at this venue, Nimbe mentioned that it was a dream come true to see the participation of women in this second edition and an emotional act for those who could plasm their success stories in the CFE.
