Employment in the European Union has reached its highest level in two decades, with the employment rate for individuals aged 15-64 hitting 71.7%. Additionally, the gender employment gap has narrowed significantly—from 15% in 2005 to 10% today. However, despite these positive trends, the manufacturing sector continues to lag in gender equality, particularly in engineering and scientific roles.
Gender Disparity in EU Manufacturing
While gender equality has improved across industries, manufacturing remains an exception. According to Dr. Susanne Bieller, General Secretary of the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), the proportion of female engineers and scientists in manufacturing is just 22.4%, compared to 45.6% in service-related industries.
“The latest EU data from Eurostat shows that gender equality in overall employment has improved. However, in manufacturing, the proportion of female engineers and scientists remains low,” says Dr. Bieller.
This disparity highlights the need for greater female participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers to ensure diversity and innovation in key industries.
Robotics and STEM: The Key to Future Competitiveness
The European Commission’s Competitiveness Compass has identified robotics as a crucial technology to drive industrial innovation. Encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers and explore opportunities in robotics is vital for maintaining global competitiveness.
Diverse teams enhance creativity, foster innovation, and contribute to a more inclusive workforce. As the automation industry expands, it offers high-quality jobs and significant economic potential for professionals, regardless of gender.
IFR’s ‘10 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics’ in 2025
To celebrate female contributions to robotics, the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) has recognized 10 leading women shaping the future of the industry in 2025. These professionals are making a lasting impact in automation, AI, and engineering:
- Albane Dersy – Inbolt, France
- Ashlie Taivalkoski – SCHUNK, USA
- Dr. Caren Dripke – Lorch Schweißtechnik, Germany
- Julia Astrid Riemenschneider – Rethink Robotics, USA
- Kari DeSantis – Fanuc America, USA
- Kate Feng Xu – ABB Robotics, China
- Kateryna Portmann – ANYbotics, Switzerland
- Susanne Nördinger – Universal Robots, Germany
- Yumie Kubota – YASKAWA Electric Corporation/AI Cube, Japan
- Yunzhi Qi – YOUIBOT Robotics, China
While employment in the EU is at a record high, the gender gap in manufacturing remains a challenge. Encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers is essential for the industry’s future. Initiatives like IFR’s ‘Women in Robotics’ highlight the contributions of female professionals, demonstrating the potential for change and innovation in automation.
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