Yolanda Bugarín joined Thermochip in June 2024. She is a Key Account Manager for Thermochip Housing, managing large accounts and driving development of this line of business in the industrial field.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It has a symbolic, yet important meaning for me, because it makes us remember and be aware that there is still a long way to go in the area of equality between men and women. It is also a way of honouring and thanking all those women who have been fighting for our rights for years, the ones who are still in the fight and the ones who are no longer with us, but have left their mark.
How has the situation of women evolved in your industry and during your professional career?
Well, when I started my engineering studies, we women were a small minority. Now a lot more women decide to study technical degrees and this is reflected in the workplace. There is still a way to go, but it is true that efforts are being made to incorporate women in this area of employment although some men still find it hard to see women in the construction industry, it is becoming increasingly normal and they are coming to terms with it.
Have you had any difficulties in your professional life because you are a woman?
Years ago especially, at the start of my working life in the industrial sector, it was hard, especially for employers, to give you the chance to work in technical positions. When they did give you the opportunity, there was usually a woman behind the recruitment process and you were a strange creature walking around the factories, workers found it strange to see a woman in overalls, but I have to say that my colleagues have always treated me as one of them and I found it easy to integrate partly thanks to them because they didn’t show me any special consideration or treat me any differently than the rest of the team.
What do you think your biggest contribution to Thermochip has been?
I think that as well as results which I hope will come in soon as the outcome of work and determination, a breath of fresh air in the technical office in Nigrán, where there used to be only men. The balance between men and women at work is always positive. We are different and although we have the same rights, each party’s contribution can deliver substantial benefits for the team. Diversity is needed in all spheres.
Why would you recommend being part of the Cupa Group team to other women?
Because it is quite a consistent company already and individual work is valued regardless of whether you are a man or a woman. And they are also strongly committed to gender equity, strengthening female profiles in departments where women are under-represented.
