As part of the Renewable Energy Innovation Fund (REIF) Program—an initiative supported by the Joint SDG Fund—the groundbreaking study “Gender Gaps in STEM: A Look at the Energy Sector”, led by UN Women and the Association of Women in Energy (AUME), was presented at the headquarters of Uruguay’s National Administration of Power Plants and Electrical Transmissions (UTE). This national and international event brought together government authorities, representatives from the United Nations system, energy sector stakeholders, and civil society organizations to spotlight gender disparities in the energy industry and catalyze transformative, evidence-based action.
The event was opened by Engineer Noelia Maciera, President of AUME, who reaffirmed the association’s commitment to building a more diverse and inclusive energy industry. “AUME was born with one goal: to create a more equal and fair energy sector, where talent can shine regardless of gender (…) Today, we are more than 200 women,” she said.
Magdalena Furtado, UN Women’s Program Director in Uruguay, emphasized the importance of linking gender equality with productive development. “If we fully harness the labor potential of women, the entire country benefits.”
Pablo Ruiz, UN Resident Coordinator in Uruguay, also participated in the opening panel and reiterated the United Nations’ commitment to gender equality across all sectors, including those traditionally dominated by men, such as energy.
The study, authored by Dr. Lucía Monteiro, a social scientist, and supported by the REIF Fund, reveals the alarming underrepresentation of women in Uruguay’s energy sector, especially in technical and leadership roles. Women make up only 22% of the energy workforce, and just 15% hold managerial positions. Moreover, the gender pay gap in STEM fields stands at 35%—nearly double the national average.
Anabela Aldaz, UN Women consultant, highlighted that although AUME and UN Women suspected the existence of significant gender gaps in the energy sector, objective data was necessary to drive effective interventions. In this context, the study becomes a key tool for understanding the scale of the issue, informing policy, and designing evidence-based actions with measurable impact.
Following this, Dr. Erika Télis, a chemist and prominent member of AUME, stressed that the study strengthens the Association’s ability to clearly define its lines of action, solidify its role as a strategic actor in the energy sector, and plan data-driven interventions.
The event also featured international experiences. Sociologist Francisca Valenzuela, Head of the Gender and Human Rights Office at Chile’s Ministry of Energy, presented the “Energy + Women” model, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships, women’s leadership programs, and the development of sector-specific indicators as key to Chile’s progress.
At the closing of the event, Fernanda Cardona, Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mining, celebrated the increasing 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 take on the responsibility of multiplying opportunities for women.”
The event concluded with the announcement of AUME’s new lines of work, including a mentoring program in collaboration with the World Bank and soft skills training sessions with UN Women. A second phase of the study is also planned, which will explore the issue from the perspectives of both energy companies and the financial sector.
This gathering marks a milestone in the ongoing effort to integrate a gender perspective into Uruguay’s energy transition, underscoring that equity is not only a matter of justice but also one of innovation, sustainability, and development.
Watch the full livestream of the event here
Access and download the full report here
