Can you tell us about your background and what led you to pursue a career in STEM?
My experience began working as an electronic engineer at a Spanish company. I worked on circuit boards and test reviews, focusing on hardware design. Later, I became interested in security, where I saw many opportunities. I decided to move to Expleo because I felt stuck at my previous company. They promised more learning opportunities, but it didn’t happen.
I joined Expleo and began working on railway safety. At my previous company, they specialised in fire detection systems for trains, but my focus was on hardware. I started by studying electronic and automatic engineering, there were 20 people on my course, with only two women. In the end, four of us graduated, three men and me.
What has been your biggest challenge as a woman in STEM?
In my last company I was the only woman. I think that’s why they didn’t teach me more—they pigeonholed me into just doing documentation and reviewing tests. Some clients I worked with got upset when I pointed out that their network scheme was incorrect or that they’ve made mistakes in implementing cybersecurity measures. Some men in those companies didn’t take it well when a woman, especially a younger one, corrected them.
What attracted you to join Expleo, and how has your experience been so far?
My experience has been very positive. I loved it from the beginning, especially the option to work remotely since I live in Madrid but far from the office, making it a long drive. I love the atmosphere at Expleo; there’s always a good vibe, and if there’s ever a problem, I can ask a colleague. There’s always good energy, and that’s something I really appreciate about the company.
How has Expleo supported your professional growth and development within the STEM field?
I have taken several programming courses, both in Java and C++, thanks to the flexible schedule that Expleo offers. I am now doing a master’s degree in cybersecurity with a focus on trains.
Can you describe a particularly rewarding project or achievement you've had while working at Expleo?
In the cybersecurity department, we analyse all systems, both at the industrial and infrastructure level, like tracks and interlockings on platforms. We study every part to prevent cyber-attacks and better protect systems, applying regulations and advising our clients to make this possible.
We don’t just work on the ground level but also within the train itself, preventing attacks and communication losses. We can avoid any type of incident, providing that regulations are followed and they have our support.
How would you describe the company culture at Expleo, particularly in terms of inclusivity and support for women in STEM?
Fantastic. I loved that my first manager was a woman. She was very approachable, super caring, and always attentive. If she noticed I didn’t understand something, she would always help me and clarify my doubts. For example, when I was in the safety department, she gave me the opportunity to do extra hours and get involved in other projects. Finally, I managed to make the leap to cybersecurity. I think it’s wonderful that there are women at Expleo, and especially the support we give each other.
What does visibility, support and recognition mean to you at Expleo?
For me, it means trust—not just from the company, but the trust the company gives women in terms of visibility. It’s a safe place where women have a lot of power, where our judgement and work capability are trusted. We are not sidelined or excluded from any project. Trust and security, above all.
Security that there will be someone above me who will support me and help me if I need it. They will understand my problems if I don’t understand something or if I have a family issue.
How do you see your future at Expleo, and what are your career aspirations within the company?
I would like to continue learning in the field of cybersecurity because there are increasingly more attacks, scams, and problems at a business level, like data breaches.
What advice would you give to other women considering a career in STEM, especially those looking to join Expleo?
I believe it’s a sector where you can grow a lot, and in a couple of years I hope to be a Project Manager and have my own team that I can lead.
Expleo offers many opportunities across various many fields and sectors. It’s a company that greatly values the work of a woman and, above all, the efficiency we usually have. Additionally, women are very protected, especially when it comes to ideas.
At work we’re given many opportunities to propose new ideas and innovate in different sectors. For example, a year ago, I suggested partnering with universities to offer internships to students before they graduated. This would let them gain experience with Expleo and potentially lead to job offers. My idea was eventually implemented.
In Expleo, women are listened to.
