The energy transition in Latin America and the Caribbean requires expanding and diversifying the sector’s capabilities by bringing more talent into scientific, technological, and innovation-related energy fields. In this context, gender equality is especially relevant, as women continue to face structural disadvantages in STEM disciplines and in career paths related to engineering, digitalization, and energy management. These gaps limit women’s opportunities for participation and leadership, while also constraining the sector’s ability to draw on a broader and more diverse talent base.
Gender stereotypes influence educational choices from an early age, reducing the participation of girls and young women in scientific and technological fields. Later, barriers persist to women’s entry, retention, and advancement in the labor market, including occupational segregation, wage gaps, limited professional networks, and exclusionary organizational cultures.
For the energy transition to be truly inclusive, safe and accessible workplaces with equal opportunities must be promoted, together with policies on training, work–life balance, discrimination prevention, and leadership development. Equitable participation in green jobs and innovation spaces will be essential to building a sustainable energy future with greater social justice.
