Stories of Women in Engineering – Anna Söderlund
Interview with Anna Söderlund
My name is Anna and I’m an industrial engineer at ALTEN in Sweden.
I’m from Västerås but I moved to study for my bachelor’s degree in industrial management and engineering; after that I continued with my master’s in industrial management and innovation. I come from a typical engineering family. I’ve always been fascinated by the interplay between humans and technology. Early on I came to the insight that we wouldn’t be anywhere close to the modern society we have today if it wasn’t for all the great engineers out there.
What do you do at ALTEN? Can you describe your role and responsibilities?
I’m currently working within the automotive sector where I’m responsible for leading machine procurement projects, all the way from pre-studies to production. The main skills I need in my role are being very organized, having good product knowledge, and being very flexible. Since the products that I’m working with are still under development, I know there will be a lot of rapid changes in my professional development.
How is the project you’re working on innovative?
The project I’m leading involves building a production line for new electrified products that aren’t on the market yet. It is a huge step towards a more sustainable transport system.
What role has ALTEN played in your professional development? How has the company supported growth and advancement in your career?
When it comes to my professional development, I’m verry happy that ALTEN was able to match my competences with a role I’m not sure I would have considered myself.
What are your career goals? How do you see your expertise and experience contributing to the advancement of engineering?
My career goals are to keep developing as an engineer and to continue making the world better by finding sustainable technical solutions.
What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day?
What I enjoy the most about my day-to-day is that I get to work on many different projects, which helps me to develop my skills.
In a few words, could you give us your vision of the place of women engineers in the professional world?
My vision is that women in engineering will never feel discriminated against or in any way question their own competence based on the way they are treated.
What role can women in engineering play in inspiring and empowering others to make a positive impact on the world?
As a woman in engineering, I think it’s important to inspire other women who might be insecure about choosing the engineering path. One way of doing this is to highlight the different roles and expertise that are needed.
What advice would you give to other women engineers who are trying to achieve a work-life balance and utilize their personal talents in their careers?
My advice to all women within engineering is to have the courage to stand up for your opinions and believe in your expertise.
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