This award, presented during the event’s gala, recognized the growth and partnerships fostered by the Women in Engineering (WIE) group, of which she has been a member since January of this year. “It’s a nice way to acknowledge the effort,” says Fátima.
Revitalizing Women in Engineering
The WIE group already existed, but it had been inactive due to its members' lack of time. With Fátima's arrival, the addition of new members, and the formation of a team, there was a "refresh" that allowed the group to resume its activities
Throughout 2024, they organized events such as WIE Day and collaborated with other institutions. These initiatives not only raised the group’s profile but also fostered connections among students, young professionals, and mentors.
Impact on the visibility of women in engineering
The work carried out by WIE aims to demonstrate that engineering is neither inaccessible nor exclusive. Fátima emphasizes that the award also helps inspire girls, teenagers, and young women, promoting the creation of support networks and mentorship programs for future generations.
"We want more women to see that this is possible and to be encouraged to take this path," she says.
Breaking the mold
Although Fátima never felt she was treated differently because she was a woman, she recalls that early in her career it was common for her to be the only woman at important technical meetings. This fact struck her, but it didn’t deter her. “I didn’t feel out of place or uncomfortable, but it was clear that there was a lack of female representation,” she reflects.
Current and Future Projects
In addition to her role at WIE, Fátima works on UTE’s green hydrogen project in Maldonado, a key initiative for Uruguay’s sustainable energy development.
Looking ahead, she plans to establish a mentoring program within WIE and continue supporting, through IEEE, the organization of events such as the IEEE World Congress on Engineering Education (EDUNINE), which will be held at Universidad ORT Uruguay the Students Branch Regional Meeting (SBRM), a regional gathering of students that will take place in Punta del Este in 2025 and bring together participants from across Latin America.
Inspiring the next generation
Fatima and her team’s story shows that engineering is a field where women can excel and take the lead. Through her work with WIE and her professional commitment, Fatima aims to leave a legacy that inspires more women to join this exciting world. “There are more and more of us, and with dedication and support, the limits disappear,” she concludes.