Employee Spotlight – Jasmin Holgado – International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Today, we’re proud to celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
It’s a moment to recognise the incredible contribution women make to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and the positive impact their work has on our communities and our world.
At Mergon, we’re always delighted to shine a spotlight on the inspiring women in STEM across our organisation. By sharing Jasmin’s story, we hope to encourage more women and girls to explore the exciting opportunities a STEM career can offer.
A big thank you to Jasmin for openly sharing her journey with us. Supporting women in STEM continues to be a priority at Mergon, and we look forward to seeing even more women shape the future of science and engineering.
What first inspired you to study Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in the Philippines?
It was a well-known field with a lot of opportunities and a clear career path, so my ambitious self was curious as to how a scientific engineer’s mind really works. It was not easy; I was the first female in my family and relative to pursue this field so you could only imagine how proud they were when I graduated and passed the exam.
What brought you to Ireland and eventually to Mergon?
My work experience is quite the same as what Mergon was looking for at the time I was hired. I have more than 9 years of work experience in plastic injection moulding industry. I eventually felt the need for career growth and when I received the job offer, I did not hesitate to take it.
How would you describe your role in the Technical Services Department?
It is a very broad field that even after years of experience, I can say that I am still learning a lot here. It is a role that gives you an opportunity to strive and continue to work on your decision-making skills and expertise. “Every day is a school day” as they say.
What part of your work are you most proud of?
Being able to be a part of the team that turns a concept to a tangible product is the one I am most proud of. I am very happy to be able to work with various people locally and internationally. Personally, I didn’t expect to work with people from top automotive companies, top medical companies and even international suppliers. it was the biggest achievement for me in my career I believe.
What skills or experiences have helped you grow since joining Mergon?
It is the constant need to communicate to suppliers and customers that helped me grow since then. As you converse with other people, share your thoughts and opinion, you learn to adapt and adjust to different situations.
How do you stay curious and continue learning in such a technical field?
It is a requirement in order to survive in this field. Specially in the technical services department, we come across some new products which we do not have experience of producing or some products which requires a technology not known to us, it is our job to find out how we can convert the concept to an actual product.
What advice would you give to young girls or women considering a career in science or engineering?
Do not be afraid, pursue your passion and believe in your capabilities. With the technologies and opportunities present to us nowadays, your dreams of becoming part of the engineering industry is not so vague. You’ll need a lot of patience and support from people around you so be open to you parents or family about your dreams and the career you wish to pursue. Family is one great source of support to succeed in this journey.
