Published October 7, 2021
On the 6th of October, Women in Green Hydrogen hosted a breakfast panel discussion at the World Hydrogen Congress in Amsterdam.
Over 50 people – both men and women – attended the event to listen to the stories and experiences of women working across the green hydrogen sector. Charlotte Hussy, Co-Founder of our network, kicked off with an introdution to Women in Green Hydrogen and its mission to tackle gender inequality. This was then followed by a panel discussion and a Q&A session.
Topics ranged from the struggles women face juggling work and home life, gender barriers in hiring practices, and the need to teach young women and girls that “the technical stuff” is also for them! The discussion also emphasised the role of emotions in inciting enthusiasm for work and driving change (rather than being incompatible with the workplace) and the crucial role men must play in creating space for women to thrive in the sector.
Women hold just 32% of positions in the renewable energy sector and 10% of executive roles. An all-women panel is still an event about gender, while all-male panels can be seen across the majority of thematic areas. We need to start having conversations about the patriarchal policies and standards that shape the hydrogen sector, and how they can be dismantled to include women.
Events such as these which amplify the voices and visibilty of women – are an excellent start.
A huge thank you to our panel speakers for their insights and contributions:
- Eva Henning, Head of Department for EU Energy Policy at Thüga Aktiengesellschaft
- Fanny Cacherat, Project Coordinator for Hydrogen at TotalEnergies Gas Mobility (World Business Line)
- Martina Wettin, Co-Founder, Spokes Person and Chief Business Development Officer at Nilsson Energy
- Caroline Hillegeer, Chief Commercial Officer at Engie Hydrogen
A huge thank you to Megan Farbrother and the entire team behind the WHC congress. Special thanks also to our superstar events team member Rosa Puentes for her enthusiasm, moral support, and for making this event possible!
