On June 23, the global engineering community marked International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026, an annual celebration of the achievements of women engineers and their contributions to shaping a better future through innovation.
Organised by the Women’s Engineering Society, this year’s theme, “Engineering Intelligence”, resonated strongly with the mission of AID4GREENEST. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to develop rapid characterisation methods and advanced modelling tools for the steel sector, the project is helping pave the way for more sustainable and efficient manufacturing processes.
Behind these advances stands a diverse and talented team of women whose expertise spans engineering, materials science, computer science, artificial intelligence, project management and ethics.
Among them are Paula Alejandra Chonillo Vera and Emma García García from IMDEA Materials Institute, alongside Prof. Anne-Marie Habraken and Prof. Anne Mertens from the University of Liège, who contribute their expertise in materials and mechanical engineering to the project’s scientific objectives.
The consortium also benefits from the knowledge of Sepideh Khalatabad of Ghent University, whose work supports the project’s computational and digital engineering activities, and Mary Osorio Baena of EurA AG, who brings expertise in industrial engineering and innovation management.
Beyond the technical research, AID4GREENEST’s success relies on strong leadership and coordination. Key contributions come from Karen Hemelsoet of Ghent University, Estela Izquierdo of IMDEA Materials Institute, and Sanna Uusitalo of the University of Oulu, whose work includes project management, business development and ethical aspects of artificial intelligence.
The project’s AI and machine learning activities are further strengthened by researchers working at the intersection of advanced computational methods and engineering applications. These include Dr. Christina Schenk from IMDEA Materials Institute and Dr. Barbara Lis, Dr. Daria M. Tomecka, and Catharina Jaeken from ePotentia.
Together, these researchers and professionals represent the multidisciplinary expertise that lies at the heart of AID4GREENEST. Their work is helping to accelerate the digital transformation of the steel industry while advancing the project’s overarching goal of improving sustainability, efficiency and competitiveness in European manufacturing.
As AID4GREENEST celebrates International Women in Engineering Day 2026, the consortium recognises the invaluable contributions of the women whose knowledge, leadership and innovation continue to drive the project forward and inspire future generations of engineers.