Carla Liz
Steelmaking Process Improver
Quick Facts
Argentine
Born in 1983
Joined Tenaris in 2006
Interview published: June 2011
Carla Liz is a chemical engineer who works in Tenaris’s steel shop - an area traditionally filled by men. Far from finding this a problem, she enjoys her job and working environment to the point that she is already willing to grow in production and operative areas where women are still scarce.
What is it like to work in an area that is traditionally dominated by men?
Most of the employees in the steel shop are men but that doesn’t make my job harder. I enjoy my working environment and I feel very comfortable sharing my responsibilities with male colleagues. There is a lot of respect and I am treated as an equal. Besides, I asked to be in the place where I am. My first positions were in global, corporate departments that did not involve working in the Campana mill. However, I expressed my interest in moving to the production area and, when it was possible, I was given the opportunity to do so.
Did the experience of working in a global department before going to the Argentine mill help you grow professionally?
Yes, indeed. In my first years, when I was fully involved in global areas, I didn’t have to go to the plant but I did have frequent connections with colleagues who were there. It was an interesting experience and I learned a lot, and I realized how useful it was when I finally moved to the mill. Global and local areas sometimes seem disconnected but it is the opposite. They are aligned and work towards common goals, so understanding the needs and requirements of both helps me do a better job.
What new challenges would you like to face?
I would like to occupy an operative position, which would be a bigger challenge since this type of job is traditionally even more deeply rooted in the hands of men. My supervisors have already told me that I will be considered as a candidate once a vacancy opens. This makes me feel highly motivated but I know that I must learn more technical issues before I move on to another area. I do think that, when the time comes, the company’s decision won’t be influenced by the fact that I am a woman. The women and men that are currently in the mill worked hard to be there, enjoy their everyday tasks and want to stay and keep on growing. Tenaris has programs that aim at ensuring gender equality and I am personally in favor of these initiatives.
What makes you want to stay in Tenaris?
Tenaris is a great company to build a career. We work very hard and our level of commitment is high, but our effort and results are always recognized and compensated. Employees who are motivated, do a good job and take advantage of the opportunities available can build a successful career in Tenaris. Besides, Tenaris is an internationally renowned company and it is quite gratifying to work in a place with so much prestige.