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Women in the Global Battery Industry (WGBI) recently sat down with Grace Rocha, the leader of our new Latin American Chapter, to discuss her journey in battery technology and her vision for advancing women's participation in the industry across Latin America. As a research scientist in advanced batteries and a passionate advocate for diversity in tech, Grace shares her inspiring journey from an internship at ITEMM to becoming a prominent voice in the battery sector. In this candid interview, she discusses the unique challenges and opportunities for women in Latin America's battery industry, while highlighting the crucial role of mentorship and international collaboration in shaping the future of the field.
Professional Background
What inspired you to become a research scientist in advanced batteries?
My interest in batteries began while learning about the sector during my internship at ITEMM. I started with little knowledge about electrochemistry or manufacturing processes, but I was deeply impacted by the 
complexity and importance of this field. With each new learning experience, I fell more in love with what I do, especially the idea of working with a century-old technology that still offers so many challenges and possibilities.
How has your experience at ITEMM shaped your perspective on women in battery technology?
At ITEMM, I had the privilege of working in an environment that values knowledge sharing. Although the battery industry is generally a male-dominated field, I was always received with respect and support, especially from more experienced professionals. In my role, I had the opportunity to represent the company at international technical forums, interacting with experts from around the world. These experiences not only broadened my technical knowledge but also highlighted the scarcity of women in these spaces and in the industry in general. This perception motivates me to advocate for greater diversity, as I believe it fosters innovation and inclusion.
Leadership in the WGBI LATAM Chapter
What are your primary goals for the WGBI Latin America Chapter?
My goal is to create a support network that connects women throughout Latin America, promoting mentorship, professional growth, and experience sharing. I want to encourage more women to explore the battery sector, showing that there is space for them not only as professionals but also as leaders and innovators.
How do you plan to address unique challenges faced by women in the battery industry in Latin America?
My strategy is to increase the visibility of women already working in the industry in Latin America, highlighting their achievements to inspire others and create a sense of belonging in a male-dominated field. In our region, cultural norms, limited resources, and a significant gap between academia and industry create additional challenges for women pursuing careers in technology. Unlike the United States, where industries actively sponsor university projects, Latin American universities often lack similar support, limiting the development of laboratories and researchers. To address this, I believe WGBI could play a crucial role in sponsoring and promoting initiatives within universities, increasing the visibility of the battery industry in academic settings. This would not only attract more women to the sector but also strengthen the connection between research and practical applications. By combining these efforts with tools like mentoring and regional networks, we can overcome structural barriers and generate lasting change.
Industry Perspectives
What emerging battery technologies excite you most in the Latin American context?
I'm particularly excited about the development of batteries for auxiliary functions in electric vehicles. This field is gaining prominence globally, especially in the United States and Europe, where these challenges are being actively addressed. Being in Latin America, I feel ahead of my time studying and working on these same challenges now, as they typically become urgent issues for our region years later. This dynamic gives us a unique opportunity to prepare for the future and adapt solutions to our local context when demand arises.
How can organizations like WGBI support women's advancement in battery research and innovation?
Organizations like WGBI create communities where women can connect, learn from each other, and access mentoring programs. This support network is essential for overcoming challenges and providing an environment where women can grow and innovate.
Personal Vision
What message do you have for young women considering a career in battery technology?
Believe in your potential and don't fear entering a challenging sector. There is plenty of room for growth, learning, and innovation. Be inspired by other women already in the field and take advantage of networking and mentoring opportunities, such as those offered by WGBI.
How do you see the role of mentorship in professional development?
Mentoring is a powerful tool for transferring knowledge and opening doors. I've been fortunate to learn from incredible people in the industry, and I believe creating these connections between generations is essential for developing more confident and prepared professionals.
Future Perspectives
What are your predictions for women's participation in the battery industry over the next decade?
I foresee a significant increase, especially with initiatives like WGBI gaining momentum. Challenges still exist, but I believe growing awareness about the importance of diversity will transform the sector in the coming years.
How can international collaboration enhance opportunities for women in this field?
International collaboration enables the exchange of best practices, network expansion, and the creation of opportunities that might not be possible locally. WGBI is an example of this, connecting women from around the world and generating significant collective impact.
