VDB introduces over 100 female role models of the German Railway Industry.
In the railway industry in Germany, the proportion of female employees is around 18 percent. This was the result of a recent survey among the members of the German Railway Industry Association (VDB) e.V. "The mobility of tomorrow must become as diverse on the side of the creators as it is on the side of its users. The traffic turnaround needs smart minds - and many of them. If we significantly increase the proportion of women, we can also significantly reduce the shortage of skilled workers," says VDB Chief Executive Sarah Stark. With the campaign "Strong Women, Strong Railway Industry," the VDB is now presenting over 100 women working in the industry. "The women we already have in the industry need to become more visible.
We want to build female role models who clearing up clichés and share their exciting careers and life paths, ultimately inspiring even more women for our diverse industry," says Stark. The campaign introduces women in the railway industry at every hierarchical level, of all ages and backgrounds, to showcase the wide range of opportunities in the railway industry. "Today, many girls are enthusiastic about science in school, but significantly fewer young women choose to study STEM subjects or pursue technical training. Even fewer graduates actually end up in the tech industry and rarely in technical positions. We need to change that," explains Stark. Participants in the VDB campaign highlight key adjustments to make the railway industry more attractive to women in their interviews. More flexible working time models should provide more room for caregiving and childcare in the future. Promotion and mentoring programs, internships and scholarships should specifically target women and support them in their professional development. It is also necessary to approach the next generation much earlier.
Therefore, it is important to create enthusiasm for the railway sector through targeted information about the diverse job profiles within the railway industry both in schools and universities as well as to provide girls and women with early opportunities for professional networking. "We need many different talents to make the railway industry fit for the future. Digital rail innovations are creating completely new high-tech professions. Also, professions with high identification potential, because the work of our industry is visible in everyday life. As modern as our technologies are, we must also be as employers," says VDB Managing Director Axel Schuppe. The VDB campaign "Strong Women, Strong Railway Industry" will be featured online on the VDB website and social media channels for a month in September as part of the 2023 Rail Day.
Find out more about over 100 female role models here.