STRADA launches new call for women in manufacturing

In a rapidly evolving manufacturing industry, women are taking on leadership roles, but their representation is still far from equal. Education is key in unlocking this potential, as proven by STRADA programme, which has empowered around 150 women across Europe with leadership skills. A new Call has been launched to expand the impact further. 

STRADA is a pioneering educational programme launched by the Automotive Technology Centre of Galicia (CTAG) in collaboration with other stakeholders and supported by EIT Manufacturing. Since its launch in 2023, STRADA has been on a mission to empower women—from those pursuing master’s or PhD degrees to those already working in manufacturing (industry or academia). The programme provides the necessary tools and support needed to step into leadership roles and drive positive change in Europe’s manufacturing landscape. 

STRADA is actively addressing the key challenges women face in manufacturing: the lack of female role models, confidence gaps, and limited awareness of available opportunities. These obstacles not only hinder individual growth but also impact gender equality in a sector where women make up around 47% of the labor force but only 20% of the manufacturing workforce according to McKinsey Global Institute (2019). Three quarters of the female population do not even consider manufacturing as a potential career due to stereotypes that prevent them from envisioning themselves in such jobs. Only one in three professionals and one in four managers in manufacturing are women. 

Despite cultural shifts towards gender equality, challenges persist for women, especially in traditionally male-dominated industries. STRADA helps women to overcome them: empowering women with tools and confidence, fostering diversity for innovation and creating a supportive network that strengthens the manufacturing sector as a whole.   

A new call to action

Thanks to the excellent results already achieved, STRADA’s new call is now open, inviting women from across Europe to get involved as participants, mentors, speakers, or collaborators. The training programme is spread across 3 months and is compatible with a full time occupation. Applicants will have a choice between two periods: autumn 2024 or spring 2025. 

This upcoming phase will continue proven actions from previous editions, such as masterclasses, webinars and mentor roundtables while also introducing exciting new features that will introduce new collaboration opportunities and support mechanisms, including Technical Cafes (workshops) between participants and trainers, enhanced mentorship and increased support for entrepreneurs, culminating in an acceleration week at CTAG’s (project leader and EIT Manufacturing partner) facilities. 

First edition final event of the STRADA — Women in Manufacturing project, last November

Key dates

• 23 September 2024: start of the autumn training course 
• Late March 2025: start of the spring training course 

Who should apply?

• Emerging female leaders at early / mid stage careers who are progressing towards leadership / management / entrepreneurial roles in academia or industry. 
• Women across all areas of manufacturing (from the back office to the factory floor), including students (MSc, PhD) and those in research or academia. 
• Women living in the EU or associated countries.

STRADA’s journey 

Since January 2023, STRADA has successfully trained 147 women with the help of 100 mentors. The programme has received significant backing from big companies, highlighting the growing need for gender diversity initiatives and inclusion in the manufacturing sector. 

STRADA is leading the way in blending education, gender equality and economic progress in manufacturing. Supported by key stakeholders, it is paving the path for women to thrive in leadership roles and drive innovation and sustainability across Europe’s manufacturing sector.