Within the framework of the REIF Program (Renewable Energy Innovation Fund), with the leadership of UN Women and the support of AUME (Association of Women in Energy), the study "Gender gaps in STEM. A look at the energy sector" was presented at UTE's headquarters . The event, of national and international character, gathered government authorities, representatives of the United Nations system, representatives of the energy sector and civil society organizations. 

The event was inaugurated by engineer Noelia Maciera, president of AUME, who reaffirmed the association's commitment to a more diverse and inclusive energy industry. "AUME was born with one goal, which is to have a more egalitarian and fairer energy sector, where talent shines regardless of people's gender (...) Today we are more than 200 women," she expressed.

Magdalena Furtado, director of UN Women programs in Uruguay, stressed the importance of linking the gender agenda with productive development: "If we have a full use of women's labor force, the country will benefit."

Pablo Ruiz, UN Resident Coordinator in Uruguay, was also present at the opening panel, and emphasized the UN system's commitment to gender equality in all sectors, including those historically masculinized such as energy.

The study, conducted by Lucía Monteiro, PhD in social sciences, with support from the RIEF Fund, reveals a worrying underrepresentation of women in the energy sector, particularly in technical and leadership roles. Globally, only 22% of the workforce in the energy sector are women. Furthermore, in Uruguay, the wage gap rises to 35% in STEM fields.

Anabela Aldaz, UN Women consultant specialist, pointed out that although AUME and UN Women had sensed the existence of significant gender gaps in the energy sector, it was necessary to have objective data in order to be able to intervene effectively. In this sense, the study presented becomes a key tool to understand the magnitude of the problem, guide policies and design actions with measurable impact.

Erika Télis, a member of AUME, emphasized that this study strengthens the Association's capacity to define its lines of action with greater precision, consolidate its role as a strategic actor in the energy sector and plan evidence-based interventions.

The day also included the presentation of international experiences. Sociologist Francisca Valenzuela, head of the Gender and Human Rights Office of the Chilean Ministry of Energy, shared the "Energy + Women" model, highlighting public-private articulation, women's leadership programs and the creation of sectoral indicators as keys to Chilean progress. 

At the closing of the event, the Minister of Industry, Energy and Mining, Fernanda Cardona, celebrated the presence of women in leadership positions and reaffirmed the government's commitment to gender equality in the energy sector. "As a minister and as a mother, I assume the responsibility of multiplying opportunities for women."

The activity culminated with the announcement of new lines of work for AUME, including a mentoring program with the World Bank and soft skills training with UN Women. A second stage of the study is also planned, which will address the issue from the point of view of the energy sector companies themselves, as well as the financial sector.

This meeting marks a milestone in the effort to integrate the gender perspective in Uruguay's energy transition, highlighting that equity is not only a matter of justice, but also of innovation, sustainability and development.

Watch the live broadcast of the event here

View and download the report here