For two decades, Alicia Bruder has witnessed firsthand the evolution of the female networking and role in the energy industry. As Marketing Manager for Blastco, a TF Warren Group company, she has lived the transformation from the inside, recalling that when she attended trade shows, women were a rarity. Today, events designed for them allow them to share experiences, create community and break new ground.
Blastco: a women-led environment
Blastco has earned a solid name for its protective coating services and industrial maintenance services. The company operates with the highest quality standards, being AMPP certified (QP-1, QP-2 and QS-1), and provides services in sectors such as oil refining, water, transportation and manufacturing.
In this technical and demanding environment, Alicia has developed her career facing additional challenges as a single mother, which requires her to plan rigorously in order to meet her work and family responsibilities. But far from victimizing herself, she uses her story to inspire and support other women who want to grow in this field.
Mentoring as a bridge between generations
For Alicia, mentoring is not an option, it is a responsibility, and she firmly believes that learning from the experience of others is one of the most effective ways to advance professionally.
People are getting older, and they’re definitely needing to pass on information and I try to give all that I’ve learned to other women as well, so, because I think that’s the best type of way you can learn.
Alicia Bruder.
This transfer of knowledge has a direct impact on the active participation of women in areas such as engineering, purchasing and technical operations, breaking stereotypes and building leadership.
Purposeful networking: the real driver of change
One of the aspects Alicia enjoys most about her job is meeting new people, hearing stories and learning from every conversation. Events focused on professional women are not only a networking opportunity, but safe spaces where collaboration, empathy and growth are fostered.
Thanks to this type of platform, many women find references, are encouraged to raise their voices and discover that they are not alone in their challenges.
An industry that is evolving thanks to women like Alicia
The road has not been easy, but stories like Alicia Bruder’s show that change is possible when determination, mentoring and real support networks are combined. At companies like Blastco, female leadership is no longer an exception, but an essential part of the present and future of the industry.
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Source: Inspenet.
