Empowering Women in STEM: Uiara Valente’s Journey with Femtec and RWTH Business School

From Engineering to Data Science: A Passion for Continuous Learning

With a strong background in Production Engineering, an MBA in Project Management, and a PMP certification, Uiara’s career spans multiple continents and industries, including oil, gas, and renewable energy. Her decision to pursue the DDS program at RWTH Business School was driven by her belief in the power of data analytics to drive informed decision-making.

“As an engineer at the largest company in Latin America (Petrobras), we often heard the phrase 'Data is the new oil.' I saw firsthand how data could transform businesses, and I wanted to develop expertise in this area to become a leader in the technological transformation,” Uiara explains.

The DDS program stood out to her due to its blend of technical and business aspects, strong industry partnerships, and RWTH Aachen University’s reputation for excellence.

The Femtec Programme: A Gateway to Opportunities

Beyond her studies, Uiara participated in the Femtec Career-Building Programme, an initiative designed to support female STEM students in developing leadership skills and expanding their professional networks. Through Femtec, Uiara connected with like-minded women, participated in career workshops, and gained insights into leadership, innovation, and negotiation techniques. She reflects

“Femtec was a game-changer for me. It provided me with a strong support network and access to industry leaders who champion women in STEM.”

The program helped her develop confidence, leadership skills, and a strong professional network, reinforcing the importance of diversity and representation in STEM fields. The mentorship and training provided by Femtec equipped Uiara with tools to navigate challenges and advance in her career.

A Woman in STEM: Challenges and Triumphs

Uiara’s journey as a woman in STEM has not been without challenges. Working in male-dominated industries, such as oil and energy, she often faced biases and felt, that she had to work harder to establish credibility. However, these experiences fueled her determination to support other women in STEM. “I actively participate in networks that empower women, sharing knowledge and experiences to help others advance,” she notes.

Her involvement in Femtec played a crucial role in shaping her confidence and leadership skills. She believes that women hold a future in data science and decision making and will significantly contribute to better problem solving as well as ethical AI practices.

Research and Future Aspirations

During her master’s program, Uiara worked on several exciting projects, including the development of a machine learning model for loan eligibility prediction and her thesis on “Global Offshore Wind Energy Growth and the Role of Artificial Intelligence.” Her research explored how AI can optimize operational efficiency in the offshore wind industry, contributing to the global energy transition.

Looking ahead, Uiara is passionate about using her expertise in data analytics to accelerate the shift towards renewable energy and climate-friendly solutions. “My degree equips me to engage in initiatives that drive the energy transition while collaborating with diverse teams worldwide,” she says.

A Message for International Women’s Day

Uiara shares an empowering message on this special occasion: “Let’s celebrate our achievements and recognize the challenges we still face. Each of us has a role in building a balanced world. Continue to inspire, support, and elevate each other; together, we can break barriers and create an inclusive society where everyone can thrive.”

Her journey is a testament to the impact of education, mentorship, and programs like Femtec in shaping the future of women in STEM. At RWTH Business School, we are proud to support talented individuals like Uiara as they lead the way in data-driven innovation and global change. Since 2024, a cooperation between Femtec and the RWTH Business School has been supporting female students financially during the excursions, giving them the opportunity to further strengthen their profile and network and to further improve their chances on the job market.

Images: Uiara