Introduction to International Women in Engineering Day
The International Women in Engineering Day is celebrated every 23rd of June to recognize and honor the achievements of women in engineering, as well as to promote gender equality within this field. Established by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) in 2014 in the United Kingdom, it has since gained global recognition. In Mexico, this day is observed to highlight the work of women engineers and inspire more young individuals to consider engineering as a career.
The Current Landscape of Women in Engineering
In Mexico, only 28% of engineering graduates are women, and less than 17% of the workforce in cybersecurity is composed of them. Although these numbers have improved over time, they still reflect the long journey ahead in terms of equity. Behind each percentage lies individual stories worth telling.
Veronica Targiano: A Trailblazer in Technology
Veronica Targiano, a Principal Solutions Engineer at F5, exemplifies the journey of women in technology. Her story began far from tech hubs and large corporations, growing up in a small Argentinean town where electricity was limited.
“I was born in a small Argentinean town, hidden among the landscapes of the Humid Pampas, whose name – curiously or not – is ‘The Fighter,’ belonging to the municipality of Benito Juárez. As a child, electricity only arrived for a few hours each day. Watching television was a luxury dependent on available energy after 6 PM. In this rural setting, devoid of modern-day distractions, I grew up in close contact with nature, which offered me a profound sense of freedom. It was there that my story began, where I forged my character, made crucial early decisions, and where my passion for technology took root.”
Twenty-five years ago, when she started her career in technology, the scenario for women in engineering was vastly different. “Today, we talk more about equity, but back then, it was almost a matter of survival. I have witnessed the digital transformation from its inception, from computers with 5¼-inch floppy disks to virtualization, automation, artificial intelligence, and cloud cybersecurity. My professional journey led me from Argentina and Mexico’s capital cities to key locations in the technology industry across Latin America.”
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Diversity
Veronica’s journey has been marked by challenges, learning experiences, and personal growth for over two decades. “Being a woman in technology isn’t just about facing external barriers but also internal ones: motherhood, hormonal changes, work demands, and societal pressure. Yet, we persist and advance with strength, intuition, resilience, and an incredible ability to adapt. We learn from our mistakes, gather lessons from each fall, and keep moving forward.”
Throughout her career, she has encountered remarkable women who have inspired her: single mothers and engineers, relentless researchers, dedicated teachers, and company leaders, all balancing professional, domestic, and personal responsibilities. “Many of them have faced injustices, doubts, or aggression merely for being women in a field historically dominated by men. Yet, they have persevered.”
Veronica’s company has allowed her to be part of inclusive teams where her voice is heard, “where diversity isn’t just acknowledged but actively promoted. I firmly believe that the more diverse a team is, the greater its capacity for innovation and success. Equity isn’t just an ideal; it’s a daily practice that should translate into opportunities, fair wages, respect, and representation at all levels.”
Nancy Toriz Robles: Breaking Barriers at UACh
New Milestones in Engineering Education
In a historic moment for the Autonomous University of Chapingo (UACh), Nancy Toriz Robles officially assumed the Directorship of the Agroindustrial Engineering Department (DIA) for the 2025-2028 period. With a student body of 404 individuals—67.1% women and 32.9% men—her appointment signifies substantial progress in inclusivity and equity within the institution.
Nancy Toriz Robles, director of the Agroindustrial Engineering Department at UACh.
“Her appointment, 102 years after the creation of the Agroindustrial Engineering Department, not only recognizes her outstanding career and the support of the academic community but marks a significant step towards greater inclusiveness and equity, as she becomes the first woman to assume this responsibility,” said Dr. Angel Garduño García, Rector of UACh, during the oath-taking ceremony.
He added that this moment represents a milestone in the DIA’s history. “We are confident that her leadership capabilities, sensitivity to agrofood challenges, and closeness to the university community will be crucial in establishing the department as a national reference in teaching, research, and linkage.”
In her message, the new director emphasized unity: “I commit to exercising this position with transparency, honesty, and empathy, listening to and valuing every member of this community. I am convinced that together we can build a space where all voices are heard and appreciated.”
“As agroindustrial engineers, we are change agents with a strong social commitment, driving the development of micro, small, and medium agroindustries through supplying, conditioning, preserving, transforming, and commercializing agricultural products. We do this with a focus on rural sustainable development, contributing to food sovereignty, equity, and social well-being.”
