STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics— has traditionally been a male-dominated field, with relatively few women entering these industries. Data from Eurostat shows that in European countries women represented only 35.4% of STEM graduates in 2022. This marks a slow increase from the past decade, during which the percentage fluctuated around 32-33%.

Although the statistics represent a positive change, gender equality remains a challenge. Stereotypes persist, workplace biases continue to create barriers, and many women still struggle to find equal opportunities and recognition in these fields. Additionally, the Netherlands presents lower numbers than the European average, with women representing only 33.1% of STEM graduates in 2022.

In this audio interview, we hear the story and perspective of Eva Rozzo, a student of Automotive Engineering at HAN University in Arnhem. Passionate about cars and pursuing a career as a mechanic, she shares how hard it still is to be taken seriously as a woman in this field.

Would this change if the public were more aware of the important innovations and inventions women have contributed to the industry?