Of strong women and submarines: Ilayda's path at thyssenkrupp Marine Systems
The world of engineering is characterized by innovation. Nevertheless, research laboratories, factory halls and offices often present a one-sided picture – it is mostly men who tinker with ideas and design complex processes. Women are still underrepresented in technical companies, even though it is precisely here that female perspectives and skills are indispensable for the future.
Ilayda is one of the women who decided to take a job in such a company. She deliberately chose a career in maritime shipbuilding. As an apprentice at thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, she talks about her experiences in a male-dominated environment, her female role models and how she sees the working world of the future.
Women’s power in shipbuilding
“The connection to thyssenkrupp Marine Systems runs in my family: my grandfather came here as a guest worker and my father still works at the shipyard today. Now I'm following in their footsteps - albeit not in the industrial sector,” says Ilayda, who is currently in the third year of her apprenticeship. “Even though I haven't seen all areas of the company yet, I feel very much at home here – not only because the team is so great, but also because I really enjoy my work,” Ilayda continues. She particularly enjoys the contact with international customers and colleagues, which always offers different and exciting facets.
At thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, the career advancement of women is a particular priority.
“thyssenkrupp Marine Systems gives me the best possible support with my training,” says Ilayda. She appreciates that she can always count on the support of her colleagues. She finds the support she receives as a woman particularly positive. “There are events organized by the company specifically for women. For example, we talk about how we can keep women in the company, how we can better organize parental leave and how we can make the company more attractive for female specialists.”
What does Ilayda like best about her apprenticeship? In addition to the many nice colleagues and the feeling of being part of something big, it's the practical work. “Seeing how my work contributes to success is incredibly motivating.” Overall, she is positive about her career path at thyssenkrupp Marine Systems. “My training at thyssenkrupp Marine Systems is exceeding my expectations. I learn something new every day, am encouraged and can contribute my own ideas. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead.”
Strong role models: Women as inspiration for the career path
Ilayda sees the fact that the proportion of women in companies with a focus on technical topics is not so high as a motivation rather than a deterrent. “In a male-dominated company, it's sometimes difficult to find your place and assert yourself, but that's exactly what motivates women to work their way up,” she says. There is a great desire for more female role models in the company.
Openness, equal opportunities and mutual respect are core values of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems' corporate culture.
“Even as a little girl, I was fascinated by strong women. Rosa Parks, who courageously stood up against racial segregation, and Coco Chanel, who revolutionized the world with her fashion, were and are my role models. Their courage, their assertiveness and their will to go their own way still inspire me today.” According to Ilayda, these qualities are also very important in her working environment.
Helping to shape the future – more women in male-dominated professions
For the future, Ilayda would like to see more female reinforcement and a higher quota of women in companies with a high proportion of men – especially in management positions. For Ilayda, it is therefore important to send a message to women who work or want to work in male-dominated professions: “Don't be afraid and be bold! Don't let self-doubt hold you back. Integrate yourselves, be open and curious – the rest will come naturally.”
You can find more information about thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and vacancies on our careers page. Apply via our job portal and become part of the #GENERATIONTK.