Leading the way toward a more diverse and equitable industry
Women are a transformative force that the refrigeration industry can no longer overlook. Yet their talent continues to be underrepresented, especially in technical and engineering departments. This reality extends far beyond our industry: worldwide, only 16% of engineering degrees are earned by women—not due to a lack of ability, but because the system has failed to inspire them.
The absence of female role models and outdated stereotypes have acted as artificial barriers, limiting access to careers where women can — and should — thrive. It is time to break down those walls and build an industry where talent has no gender.
Our teams at Güntner Mexico chose to take proactive steps to help correct this imbalance, recognizing the positive outcomes that can result. Unlocking the enormous potential of female talent is not only a matter of equity — it is a clear competitive advantage. Studies show that a more diverse workforce fosters diversity of thought and drives greater innovation.
Güntner got together with the Faculty of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (FIME) at the Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon in its home city of Monterrey. Together they created a new initiative consisting of specialized classes on thermodynamics and the fundamentals of refrigeration for female students in their sixth semester or above.
The aim was simple: to promote female interest in the HVAC/R sector and reduce the gender gap in the industry.
This was a classic strategic alliance between academia and industry. Güntner provided specialized technical content, instructors, financial resources and industry insight. Engineers from Güntner (both male and female) also dedicated their free time to teaching classes and sharing their experiences. FIME provided the physical space, institutional support, university lecturers and direct access to students with high potential.
Technical and practical workshops were accompanied by trips to Güntner’s manufacturing facility in Monterrey, the Meat and Dairy Expo, and the LITE refrigeration laboratory at FIME.
In total, 28 women enrolled in the course, and they were overwhelmingly positive about it. These are some of the things they said:
“The course was taught by people who really know the subject and are so passionate about it that they managed to convey this same feeling to us, which motivated us to learn and find out about the HVAC industry.”
“The course helped us broaden our knowledge of the industry and not feel lost when we entered it.”
“The course gives you the confidence that you don't have at university because you're afraid that the subject is dominated by men, which doesn't give you the space to grow and learn more.”
“The visit to the laboratory at FIME and the Güntner plant complemented everything we learned very well.”
Overall, the program represents a long-term investment in human capital by Güntner, in terms not only of financial commitment but also the use of our best engineers and leaders as instructors and mentors. It was a clear demonstration of the value that we place on talent and equity.