Championing Diversity in Engineering: Beyond International Women’s Day

  • Kardelen Hatun, VP of Engineering at Silverflow

  • 07.03.2025 11:30 am
  • #WomenInSTEM #InclusiveWorkplaces

“International Women’s Day is more than just a moment in the calendar—it’s a reminder of the work we still need to do to make​​ our industry truly inclusive. As a VP of Engineering, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that true diversity can have on innovation and outcomes. The more perspectives we bring to the table, the stronger our solutions become.” 

“My journey into engineering was shaped early on by my parents, both of whom worked in STEM. Having role models in my own household made it feel natural to pursue my passion for science and problem-solving. I had a strong aptitude for mathematics, and when I discovered computer science, I was drawn to its creative and logical aspects.​​”  

“A common stereotype about software engineers is that they work in isolation, but in reality, the field is highly collaborative and creative, requiring continuous teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. From studying computer science to leading a team of 40 engineers, I’ve found that out-of-the-box thinking, and teamwork are at the heart of building great technology, making a diverse workforce absolutely paramount.” 

“However, despite progress, there is still an underrepresentation in STEM – only 41% of women are in STEM in Europe. The reality is that people are more likely to pursue careers where they see others like them succeeding. That’s why representation matters—it’s not about tokenism but about breaking down barriers so that more feel encouraged to enter and thrive in the field, regardless of sex or race.” 

“At Silverflow, we’re committed to fostering a culture where diversity is more than just a talking point. We actively work to level the playing field by addressing unconscious bias and ensuring that opportunities for growth and leadership are accessible to all. To truly support diversity in engineering, companies need to go beyond celebrating IWD and take a more holistic approach to cultural change in the workplace. We need to invest in mentorship, equitable hiring practices, and workplace environments where all engineers—regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic background—can flourish.” 

“By championing diversity, we don’t just create better workplaces; we drive better business outcomes, more innovative solutions, and a stronger industry as a whole.”

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