Research indicates that there is slow progress in closing the global gender gap in the workforce¹, with LinkedIn data showing that women account for 42 percent of the global workforce.² The number of women in STEM however has been steadily growing since 2016 – this figure stands at 28.2 percent of the global workforce.²

ABB celebrated International Women’s Day by driving the discussion on continuous improvements. This involved thousands of our employees in countries around the world in panels, events, training, and online forums throughout the month.

Our people shared their experiences in the workplace, how they are breaking unconscious bias and how we are enabling professional development. We also highlighted our inclusive hiring training, career development opportunities, mentorships, inclusive environment, employee resource groups, inclusive policies, our commitment to physical and emotional safety, and partnerships. Our aim is to build a culture where individual differences are not only welcomed but celebrated. 

Our colleagues shared their advice to grow careers

Exploring the impact of women in the workforce and women in STEM

We aim to demonstrate the achievements of women in the workforce and STEM to inspire current and future generations.

Here are a few examples of how we have fostered this ongoing culture and conversation:

We were recognized as one of the best companies for professional women under 35 in Peru and in Chile, awarded through Employers for Youth.

ABB India was recognized as one of the top 3 companies in DivHERsity - Manufacturing by HerKey, celebrating gender diversity in manufacturing in India.

We also hosted A Conversation That Sparks Innovation: Women & Girls in Science - a live discussion where ABB’s women in STEM and young girls came together to explore career journeys and inspire future innovators in science, engineering, and technology. 

We published a special edition of our technical journal:  ABB Review Special Report: Women in STEM. With topics ranging from the virtues of virtualization to smart energy management processes, this curated collection of previously published articles showcases their research and innovations in a wide range of technology areas. 

We shared what a career at the ABB Corporate Research Center looks like.

These are just some of the steps that we are taking to create a safe, fair and inclusive environment where all our people can thrive, develop their potential, and contribute with their unique perspectives. 

Sources:
1. World Economic Forum’s “Global Gender Gap Report 2024”; International Labour Organisation’s “World Employment and Social Outlook: May 2024 Update”;  World Bank’s “Women, Business, and the Law 2024”
2. World Economic Forum’s “Global Gender Gap Report 2024”

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