Diversity in the battery industry is no longer optional

As the battery sector evolves, women are bringing new perspectives and innovations into the industry, showing that diversity isn’t just a benefit- it's vital for future success. This is the first of a two-part series on the European Lead Battery Conference (ELBC) and the Women in the Global Battery Industry (WGBI). In this part, I’ll explore the importance of diversity in the battery industry. In the next article, I’ll take it further by discussing the vital role of WGBI in supporting women within the sector.

By Natalia Wirthova

As I stood at the WGBI reception at ELBC held in September 2024 in Milan, the energy in the room was palpable. Women were a minority at this conference, but the reception room filled up within minutes. Conversations flew freely, centering on the role of women in the battery sector. This event, celebrating women’s contributions to the industry, is a platform for sharing advice, building networks and discussing the importance of diversity. 

The significance of the reception is clear. For decades, the battery industry has been dominated by men. Today, the landscape is slowly changing as more women enter the workforce. With increasing attention to diversity, the conversation about how women can shape the industry is gaining momentum. “Historically, there hasn’t been a lot of diversity in the technical field, especially in the battery industry. Today, we are working to bridge the gap between women and education, providing pathways for more women to enter this field,” shared WGBI Director Susan Bernard. 

More voices, more innovation

But why does diversity matter in the battery industry? The answer is surprisingly simple. The battery industry is, at its core, no different from any other community. It thrives when it’s diverse. Bringing together a range of perspectives, backgrounds, and skills is vital to solving complex problems and addressing challenges. 

The connection between diversity and improved performance isn’t just an abstract ideal but a measurable business advantage. A recent McKinsey report found that companies with higher gender diversity are up to 48% more profitable than those with fewer women. This isn’t lost on women in the industry. “If you increase diversity, you’re increasing the number of different minds sharing ideas and innovations,” said Dr. Elizabeth Ashton, Research Associate from Loughborough University, “that's the key in the battery industry because diversity fosters innovation and helps to modernize what’s often seen as an ‘old’ industry.” 

Beyond technical skills, empathy and emotional intelligence are increasingly recognized as valuable assets in industries traditionally shaped by male perspectives. Empathy in leadership promotes better communication, collaboration and employee satisfaction. As Maria Kurpitko, ELBC attendee and Industrial Sales & SMM Expert, told me, “women’s power, our communication and problem-solving, can bring softness that’s often missing in this tough industry. Women bring a different energy to the industry, helping to connect people and make cooperation smoother.” 

Navigating the industry

Networking was a huge part of ELBC. For young women, entering a traditionally male-dominated field can be intimidating. The Global Gender Gap Report (2023) shows that while women make up 49% of the total workforce, they represent only 29% of STEM workers. However, the women I spoke with at the WGBI reception were confident that resilience, networking and mentorship are keys to overcoming these challenges.

Dr. Begüm Bozkaya from Consortium for Battery Innovation (CBI) encourages young women not to shy away from obstacles. "You must have a unique skill set to be here, so please be aware of it and own it. Have the courage to raise your ideas and share your opinions when it is the right time," she said. As I listened to this advice, Lisa Allen from International Lead Association (ILA) echoed the sentiment, adding, "young women entering this industry should push harder. They shouldn't be afraid to be bold, put themselves forward for things, be active and be seen." 

Networking is another key theme. For young women who may feel isolated or marginalized in the industry, events like WGBI provide opportunities to connect with like-minded women, establish relationships with mentors and find guidance. “It can be rewarding to step outside of your comfort zone into a different environment,” said Dr. Elizabeth Ashton, “you never know what opportunities you can find there.” 

Diversity is a necessity

Diversity is no longer a “nice to have” in the battery industry. It’s a necessity. Women bring unique perspectives and skills necessary for innovation, strengthening teams and creating harmonious workplaces. With the strong presence of WGBI at ELBC, I could see the shift towards a more inclusive environment in the battery industry.  

 It is clear that the battery industry needs more women, not only as participants but as leaders, innovators, and changemakers. As inclusion becomes a norm across the industry, it signals a brighter future for women in the battery sector. 

Be sure to come back for the next article in this series exploring why WGBI is crucial for women in the battery industry.