New Energy. New Perspectives.

Technology, sustainability, and diversity are reshaping the working world — and the hydropower industry is no exception. Traditionally a male-dominated field, this sector is undergoing a quiet revolution. Increasingly, women are stepping into technical roles, apprenticeships, and engineering careers. And it’s not just about numbers — it's about perspectives, innovation, and inclusive growth. The future is becoming more diverse.

At the core of this transformation is a strategic commitment to youth development. Apprentices and trainees are not only the next generation of hydropower experts; they are changemakers who bring fresh thinking, digital skills, and social responsibility into our teams. If we want to build a future-proof, forward-thinking energy industry, we must start by building up our young talent — ­especially women.
 

Creating Space — ANDRITZ Programs with real Impact 

The future of the industry will be more connected, more diverse, and more demanding — and we aim to actively shape this future by educating the next generation. At ANDRITZ, promoting young talent is not a side show, but a strategic core value.

From hands-on apprenticeships to structured graduate programs, ANDRITZ offers diverse entry points for young talent worldwide. A recent milestone in Austria underscores this commitment: 17 apprentices were successfully recruited — and notably, eight of them are female. A strong sign that targeted outreach, like the Girls’ Day event in Weiz or university partnerships in Vienna, is working. More women and girls are discovering that technical careers can be creative, impactful, and welcoming.

In Turkey, the overall female to male employee ratio stands at 11.3%. ­Nonetheless, in 2024, our Hydropower division in Turkey welcomed 14 female interns out of 24 from various academic backgrounds and departments — an encouraging sign of increasing female­ participation in technical and engineering roles.

In Canada, the Young Graduate Program provides university graduates with two years of rotations in different departments — from engineering to procurement and project execution. The program was designed with mentoring, skill-building, and visibility in mind. It attracts more female candidates than traditional entry-level roles — proving that women respond positively to ­structured, supportive ­environments with clear growth potential.

Real Stories from the Field

But what does a career start at ANDRITZ really feel like? What ­challenges do young women face — and overcome? In the following interviews, two women from Austria and Canada share their personal journeys: how they entered the world of hydropower, what inspired them, and why they now see themselves as part of the industry’s future. Their voices are proof that when ­companies create opportunities, women create progress.

Hands-on, full steam ahead

From barn to workshop, Theresa Peintinger is shaping her career in mechanical ­engineering. She reflects on challenges, support, and ­ambition at ANDRITZ Hydropower.
 

Please introduce yourself briefly. Who are you and what vocational training are you currently doing?

My name is Theresa Elisabeth Peintinger, I’m 20 years old and from Gasen, a small municipality in Styria, Austria. I’m in the final year of my 3.5-year apprenticeship as a mechanical engineering technician at the ANDRITZ Hydropower workshop in Weiz, near Graz.

Why ANDRITZ Hydropower? What led you here?

A good friend, knowing my interest in ­engineering, encouraged me to do a trial ­internship at ANDRITZ Hydropower. It gave me valuable insights into the company, the ­profession, and the training opportunities. I really liked what I saw — that’s when I decided to pursue this career path.

Why a technical profession? What do you like about a skilled trade?

I grew up on a farm where hands-on work and self-sufficiency were part of everyday life. From a young age I helped in the barn and with the machines, which sparked my interest in engineering. I really enjoy the fact that there is always a new challenge and something to learn. I am always moving in this job, and the work is different every day.

How does your daily life compare to that of friends your age?

I feel that I’m building a solid long-term career with exciting opportunities, something many of my friends don’t have in their jobs. On a personal level, although the work is very varied, I have set working hours and a regular schedule. Other friends, for example those working in construction, sometimes come home earlier or later.
 

Who inspired you to work in plant ­engineering? Any female role models?

While many female engineers can be role models, it was actually my friend — as ­mentioned earlier — who also completed her apprenticeship at ANDRITZ Hydropower, who introduced me to this career. She spoke highly of the company and the prospects that a career in engineering could open for me. She still works here as a mechatronics ­engineer and we’re still in close contact.

What are the biggest challenges as a woman in a technical field?

Sometimes I can't lift as much as my male counterparts, but fortunately I'm part of a supportive team where we help each other to ensure that any job is completed successfully. If I have questions or face difficulties, I can always turn to my trainer or colleagues. That team spirit is one of the great things about working at ANDRITZ Hydropower. 

Have you experienced any disadvantages as a woman in this environment?

Not at all. I’ve never been treated differently because I’m a woman — nor do I expect special treatment. ANDRITZ actively promotes women in technical careers, and everyone I’ve worked with has been nice, respectful, and helpful. I also serve as a youth trade union representative, helping other apprentices with questions and concerns. Through this role, I have also made new friends — both men and women — and sometimes we get to hang out outside of work and do things together. 

Have you worked on a construction site? What was that like?

Last year, I had the opportunity to visit the Kühtai pumped storage project in Tyrol for a week. It was fascinating to see how a power plant is built from scratch. If I get the chance again, at Kühtai or another site, I’d definitely like to go.

How do you see your career developing? What are your plans for the future?

My immediate goal is to pass my final apprenticeship exam next year and become a ­qualified technician. Beyond that — who knows? I’m excited to see what the future holds for me and my career.
 

What do you enjoy outside of work? What interests you outside of technology?

In my free time, I still help out on the ­family farm — I’m just as passionate about ­agriculture as I am about technology. I am also a member of the local music society and spend time 
with friends. To relax, I enjoy hiking and cycling.

Thank you, Theresa, for sharing your ­inspiring journey and passion for engineering. We wish you all the best for your final exam and every success in your future career.
 

Next-gen energy, next-gen leadership

Meet Marie Rouillard — engineer, innovator, and advocate for community-driven ­technology. She shares how mentorship and mindset helped her thrive in a technical field.

Please introduce yourself briefly. Who are you and what vocational training are you currently doing?

My name is Marie Rouillard, I am 24 years old. I will complete my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at Polytechnique Montréal in autumn 2025 as an exchange student at the Czech Technical University in Prague.

Why ANDRITZ Hydropower? What led you here?

I had the opportunity to discover ANDRITZ Hydropower through its role as a major sponsor of Polytechnique Montréal's Esteban technical club, of which I was Co-Director General for two years. I was able to see that ANDRITZ Hydropower shared many of my fundamental values: encouraging the next generation, technological innovation, and sustainable development.

Why a technical profession? What do you like about it?

I've always been drawn to science and technology but also have a strong interest in community service. I realized that engineering would enable me to reconcile all my interests: contributing to community well-being while taking on stimulating technical challenges.

How does your daily life compare to that of friends your age?

It's difficult to compare the day-to-day experiences, but I can say that my experience at ANDRITZ Hydropower was particularly concrete and focused on practical application. Every single person was available and ready to help me and there's a real sense of pride in contributing to a greener future. 

Who inspired you to work in industrial plant engineering, and do you have any female role models?

I had the chance to chat with Anne-Marie Labrecque and Daniel Carrier. They told me about ANDRITZ and encouraged me to apply to the Young Graduates Program. This discussion had a profound influence on my career path. Several inspiring women have also shaped my worldview and encouraged me to ­get involved in science but the women who inspire me most on a daily basis are my fellow students and friends. They are brilliant women who combine empathy, gentleness, and excellence.

What are the biggest challenges as a woman in a technical profession?

I believe that one of the greatest challenges facing women in the technical professions is overcoming imposter syndrome. This feeling can be particularly prevalent at the start of a career. Learning to take one's place with confidence is a process that requires time, support, and sometimes inspiring role models.

Have you experienced any disadvantages as a woman in this environment?

It can be unsettling to find yourself in a room where you're the only woman but during my internship at ANDRITZ Hydropower, a colleague shared a perspective that stuck: Sometimes you have to change your outlook and see the opportunity. Being the only woman in a room is an opportunity to stand out and leave a lasting impression.

How do you envision your future career path? What are your plans for the future?

I want to pursue a career in the field of renewable energies, and I have a real interest in project management. In the medium term, I'm considering an MBA or equivalent in management, but in-depth understanding of the product, the processes, and the day-to-day reality of your team is, in my opinion, a prerequisite.

What do you do in your free time to relax? What interests you outside of technology?

In my spare time, I particularly enjoy playing a variety of sports and I really enjoy getting away from my screens to go hiking or camping. I also have two cats, Fred and Fiona, who really help me to relax and slow down on a daily basis.

Thank you, Marie, for sharing your ­inspiring journey. Your passion for ­engineering and sustainability is a powerful example for the next generation of hydropower professionals.

Author: Marie-Antoinette Sailer