Breaking Barriers: Encouraging More Women to Pursue Careers in Technology
The underrepresentation of women in engineering and technology continues to be a pressing issue. However, industry leaders are striving to change the narrative and encourage more women to step into these roles. Lisa Kagerbauer, an engineer at Lutz-Jesco, a specialist in pump and dosing technology, highlights the importance of breaking outdated stereotypes and creating an inclusive professional environment.
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Performance Over Perception
“What truly matters is performance, not gender,” says Kagerbauer, challenging the misconceptions that often discourage women from entering technical fields. Having worked at Lutz-Jesco since 2020, she has encountered support and respect from colleagues rather than the resistance some might expect.
Many women face concerns such as having to prove themselves more than their male counterparts or fearing that mistakes will be unfairly attributed to their gender. However, Kagerbauer asserts that her experience has been different.
“The idea that women in technology constantly have to fight for their place does not reflect my reality,” she explains. “I have always been valued for my skills and contributions.”
A Call for More Women in Technology
Despite the progress, statistics indicate that women remain significantly underrepresented in technical roles. In 2023, only 18% of professionals in technical research and development in Germany were women, according to the Federal Statistical Office.
Kagerbauer emphasizes that this must change. “For Germany’s future, it is essential that more talented young women bring their skills and potential into the technology sector,” she says. She encourages aspiring female engineers to be confident, assertive in salary negotiations, and steadfast in their ambitions.
A Lifelong Passion for Science and Engineering
Kagerbauer’s love for numbers and problem-solving started early. Even in nursery school, she helped her older brother with his math homework. This passion led her to study process and chemical engineering at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), where she specialized in food process engineering. Her master’s research focused on rheology, the study of the flow characteristics of materials—specifically examining milk foam. “After months of working with milk foam daily, I now prefer my coffee black,” she jokes.
Since joining Lutz-Jesco, Kagerbauer has been part of a team dedicated to developing water treatment systems for industrial and municipal applications. She appreciates the supportive work culture and the sense of community at the company. “I initially missed the vibrant city life, but I’ve grown to love the peace and quiet of the countryside,” she shares.
Encouraging the Next Generation
On International Women’s Day, Kagerbauer’s message to aspiring female engineers is clear: “Go for it. The technology sector needs you. Be confident, trust your abilities, and don’t shy away from making your voice heard.”
With industry leaders like Lutz-Jesco advocating for inclusivity and equal opportunities, the path is being paved for more women to enter and excel in engineering and technology. The future is bright, and it’s open to everyone willing to take the leap.
