Belgrade, March 14, 2024 – The Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Siemens Serbia, and the “Engineer of the Year” association have launched the 2024 Engineer of the Year competition in Serbia to inspire and motivate young women, especially high school students, to pursue engineering studies and careers. Applications are open from today until April 7, and candidates may apply themselves or be nominated by their employer with their consent.
“Engineer of the Year” is an initiative that was introduced in Serbia for the first time last year with the goal of presenting female engineers from various companies and institutions to the wider public—women whose personalities and professional achievements can serve as examples and inspiration for young women choosing their future careers.
According to Mihailo Vesović, Director of Strategic Analysis, Services and Internationalization at the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, economic and technological development depends on the availability of skilled professionals. “Serbia is one of the better examples in the region when it comes to gender equality. Around 40 percent of engineers are women, and in some areas, such as gaming, we are even above the European average. However, that is not enough, and now is the right time to discuss this topic as university enrollment approaches.”
Ivana Vukašinović, Assistant Minister for Science, Technological Development and Innovation, noted that women currently account for more than 50 percent of students at STEM faculties, 50 percent of faculty employees, and more than 60 percent of employees at scientific institutes. “Nevertheless, despite these encouraging figures, we must continue to fight unfair perceptions and stereotypes about women in engineering sciences. Although we are witnessing progress, women still face numerous challenges. The path to gender equality therefore requires effort from both individuals and organizations,” she emphasized during the press conference.
As highlighted by Medeja Lončar, President of Siemens for Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia, engineering and innovation are essential for the future development of humanity, and creating “technology with purpose” should serve as a motivation for choosing an engineering profession. “I have worked for 20 years in a company that records an average of 24 inventions every day. Last year, five of Siemens’ twelve top innovators were women, while this year innovation efforts are focused on artificial intelligence and sustainable development. Employers today encourage diverse teams because research has shown that teams with equal representation of men and women are more successful, more innovative, and more profitable,” said Lončar.
Ana Petrović, who was selected as Engineer of the Year 2023, also shared her experience with the initiative. According to her, the project is not a competition in engineering achievements, but rather aims to show high school girls how broad the field of engineering is and the many areas in which they can build their careers. “This was a wonderful experience for me, and I encourage my fellow female engineers to apply for the new competition and inspire new generations of girls to pursue engineering through their example,” Petrović said.
“Since this initiative is primarily aimed at young people, I would like to emphasize that our selection process is a true ‘parade of engineering,’ showcasing what female engineers do and how important they are for our future and development. Therefore, our focus is on the selected engineers’ potential to serve as role models and inspire young women when choosing a profession. After reviewing all submissions, ten finalists will be selected. Four separate juries will then decide which of them will receive the title of ‘Engineer of the Year,’ and we expect the winner to be announced in June,” said Rade Krajnović, President of the “Engineer of the Year” association.
