As we commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, February 11th serves as a crucial moment to highlight the role of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and reflect on the challenges that still persist. In this context, we spoke with three women scientists from Valencia’s tech sector: Inés Blanc (Project Manager at Cramik), Loreto Crespo (Biotechnologist at Genotipia), and Nadia García (Materials and Bioplastics Specialist at ADBioplastics). They share their experiences, insights, and advice for future generations of women in science.
Discovering a passion
For many, a love for science begins in childhood or adolescence. Inés Blanc recalls that her interest sparked in high school during her first chemistry class, a moment that defined her future in research. Similarly, Nadia García emphasizes the impact of passionate teachers in igniting her curiosity for experimental sciences. “Thanks to truly dedicated teachers, I became fascinated by chemistry,” she explains. Loreto Crespo, on the other hand, didn’t have a specific calling but was always drawn to science and its potential for societal impact, leading her to pursue Biotechnology.
Despite progress, the gender gap in science remains a reality. While Inés Blanc and Nadia García state they haven’t encountered direct obstacles due to their gender, Loreto Crespo believes that “all women face additional challenges simply because we are women.”
A key issue is the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. “The problem isn’t the number of women pursuing scientific careers, but how many of them become professors, scientific directors, CEOs, or board members,” Crespo highlights. García adds that the gender gap varies across generations and cultures, emphasizing that “education plays a crucial role in shaping these disparities.”
The power of female role models
Having visible role models is essential to encouraging young girls to explore scientific careers. Blanc attributes her inspiration to her chemistry teacher and her aunt, a chemist and pharmacist. Crespo reflects on the lack of female references early in her career and stresses the importance of showcasing both past and present women scientists.
The fight for gender equality in STEM must continue. “This day will remain necessary until salaries are equal, leadership positions are accessible, and gender-based stereotypes disappear,” asserts Crespo. García adds, “When full equality is achieved and no man believes he has more rights simply for being a man, this day will no longer be needed.”
The three scientists share a clear message for young women interested in STEM: pursue your passion. “Don’t hesitate—this is an incredibly exciting field,” says Blanc. García reinforces that “where there’s a will, there’s a way,” and encourages women to see challenges as opportunities for growth.
International tech events like VDS, where “Women in Tech” is a key topic, play a vital role in increasing visibility and fostering support networks. “It’s important for startups to break the stereotype that CEOs must be men,” says García. Blanc adds that these events provide solidarity and encouragement, inspiring more women to launch their own projects. “They create an environment where more women feel empowered to innovate,” she explains. Crespo believes that achieving gender equality in science and technology requires ongoing visibility and action. “These events are crucial for driving real change,” she says.
Reaching a future where days like February 11th are no longer needed is a collective effort. As these women demonstrate, it is in our hands to create equal opportunities, highlight female role models, and challenge systemic biases.
