The steel industry has long been perceived as a male domain, but that narrative is changing. At Ovako, for decades, women have been integral to our success, contributing technical knowledge, innovative thinking, and leadership that drives our company forward.
As we mark International Women's Day 2026, we asked four women from across Ovako — spanning 40 years of experience in the business, to less than one — to share their journeys, challenges, and insights. Their experiences remind us that competence has no gender, and that diversity of thought and background makes us stronger.
What first inspired you to pursue a career in the steel industry, and how did you find your way to Ovako?
Louise Madsen, Section Manager, Continuous Casting & Grinding Hall, Smedjebacken (Started May 2025):
"I have always been drawn to environments where things are created for real — where you can see, hear and feel the result of teamwork and competence. Heavy industry represents exactly that. It is complex, technical and demanding, but also deeply rewarding. After many years in an another industrial company, I felt ready to take on a role where I could combine production, leadership and long-term development in a more tangible setting.
Ovako stood out because of its strong industrial heritage, clear sustainability ambitions and its focus on high-quality steel. I was attracted by the opportunity to lead close to the process, close to the people and close to the results."
What first inspired you to pursue a career in the steel industry, and how did you find your way to Ovako?
Tarja Kunnala, Manager, Production Planning, Ovako Imatra (40 years at Ovako):
"After graduating, I noticed that there was an open position at Ovako Imatra. I went ahead and applied — and was accepted for the position. I started my career as an export secretary in the steel industry. This happened over 40 years ago; back then, it was a much more male-dominated field. This has certainly changed. Today, there are plenty of spaces for women in important roles."
Can you describe a specific challenge you've faced as a woman in the steel industry and how you addressed or overcame it?
Sandra Tiar, Area Sales Manager, South of France, Spain & Portugal (7 years at Ovako):
"When I joined the company, my first mission was to visit all the customers in South of France and Spain to understand their activities and production processes, to provide them with the best possible service. But reality was sometimes more complex.
In some cases, I felt that trust in me did not come easily. Not because of my competence, but because I was a woman in a traditionally ‘male’ industry. At first, you can feel that you have to prove more, that you have to demonstrate your legitimacy. But I never tried to be someone else — and that actually made it easier to gain trust.
This experience taught me something essential. Confidence is not something others give you; it is something you build, step by step."
What aspects of working in steel do you find most rewarding, and what motivates you to stay and grow in this sector?
Marit Jobs, Environmental Engineer, Hofors (3 years at Ovako):
"As an engineer, I find it inspiring to work in such a technology intensive environment. There is an extensive amount of knowledge and expertise here, and there is much to learn about our processes and products. It is a world of its own to step into.
I do not need to master all of it in my daily work, but at times I need to delve deeper into certain areas, for example when we need to explain to an authority how we address specific issues. As an environmental engineer, I work with a broad spectrum of topics related to water, soil, air, noise and waste, which enables me to continuously develop and learn new things within my own field."
Are there any stereotypes or misconceptions about women in heavy industry that you've encountered, and how do you respond to them?
Louise Madsen:
"I am aware that stereotypes exist in society at large, but in my own experience within industry, I have not felt limited by them. Modern steel production is highly technical and team-based. It requires analytical ability, leadership, collaboration and resilience — qualities that are not connected to gender.
My approach has always been simple: deliver results, be consistent and treat people fairly. Over time, that defines you far more than any preconceived notion ever could."
What advice would you give to young women who are considering careers in steel or other industrial sectors?
Marit Jobs:
"If you are curious about the industry, I would recommend pursuing a summer job, an internship, or something similar. Regardless of whether you wish to work in production or aim for a more administrative role, I believe that having that experience provides a good and valuable starting point."
Tarja Kunnala:
"I encourage you to just apply to the field and learn new things on the go. You will notice that every day is interesting and different."
Louise Madsen:
"Do not self-select out. If you are curious about technology, production, logistics or engineering explore it. Competence, work ethic and integrity matter more than fitting a stereotype. Most importantly: be yourself. You do not need to become someone else to succeed in industry. Industry needs diversity of thought, background and leadership styles."
Sandra Tiar:
"There will be challenges. There will be doubts. There will be moments when you feel that you don't belong. But never underestimate your ability to learn. Never let stereotypes define your limits.
The steel industry is a demanding world — but it is also a world full of opportunities, learning, and personal growth. And sometimes, the biggest barrier is the one you place in your own mind. Break it."