Page 48 - EngineerIT AugustSeptember Issue 2026
P. 48
ROBOTICS
Why the future of robotics depends
on more women
s robotics, artificial intelligence For Dr Martina Hutter-Mironovova, Platform Manager Intelligent Robotics
(AI) and automation continue at Yaskawa Europe GmbH, a career in robotics was never part of the original
Ato transform industries, one plan. "I chose to study mechanical engineering because both of my parents
challenge remains: women are were engineers," she explains. "My studies focused on automation technology
still underrepresented in the fields rather than robotics specifically. It was only after joining Yaskawa and working
shaping the future of technology. hands-on with industrial robots that I discovered a genuine passion for the
According to UNESCO, women field, which eventually led me to complete a PhD in Technical Cybernetics,
account for just 35% of tertiary closely related to robotics and AI."
STEM graduates globally, while in
engineering, manufacturing and Her journey reflects an important reality. There is no single path into
construction, the disciplines that robotics. As technology has evolved, so too have the careers available
underpin robotics, that figure drops within the industry.
to only 26% across G20 countries. At
a time when industries are facing "Robotics today is far more than designing machines," says Hutter-
growing shortages of engineering Mironovova. "The growth of AI and what we now call Physical AI has
and digital skills, this represents an significantly expanded the field. Software development, machine vision,
untapped opportunity. product management, project leadership and marketing all play an
important role. Whether someone enjoys programming, solving engineering
For South Africa, where advanced challenges or leading innovation, there is a place for them within robotics."
manufacturing and automation are
becoming increasingly important to While the industry has evolved, perceptions have often lagged behind. "When
economic growth, attracting more I started my career, industrial technology was still heavily male-dominated,"
women into robotics is no longer she recalls. "Building trust with customers was often more difficult simply
simply about diversity. It is about because I was a woman. I felt I had to prove myself twice as much as some
ensuring the country has the talent of my male colleagues. Rather than discouraging me, it motivated me to
it needs to innovate, compete and continuously deepen my technical knowledge and keep learning. Looking
build the workforce of the future. back, that challenge ultimately helped me grow."
48 | EngineerIT August/September 2026
