Outstanding women in the aluminium industry honoured for the first time at the world's leading trade show.

The ‘Women With Metal - the ALUMINIUM Awards’ were presented for the first time at ALUMINIUM 2024 on 9 October. In collaboration with Women With Metal, the UK Aluminium Federation (ALFED) and Aluminium International Today, the show organiser, RX Germany, launched the awards at the beginning of the year to recognise the achievements of women in the industry and promote equality and diversity. It also recognised the efforts of male colleagues who have shown outstanding support as allies for women in the industry.

Women remain underrepresented in many industries, including the metals sector, which encompasses the aluminium industry. They often face challenges with visibility, support, and recognition. Under the theme "Women can do aluminium, too," the awards honour women in the aluminium sector, encouraging more women to enter the industry and confidently establish themselves.

These winners are setting new standards in the aluminium industry

The awards recognised exceptional individuals across five categories for their commitment, innovation, and exemplary roles within the aluminium industry.

The winner in category Role Model was Negisti Gebreegziabher Gared (N A Y S Aluminium Engineering PLC). As a founder and managing director, she impressively demonstrates how women can assert themselves in a male-dominated industry and act as an inspiration and role model for women worldwide.

The title in the Unsung Shero category went to Gerd Aalborg Aas (Norsk Hydro). She was celebrated for her humane yet goal-oriented leadership, integrating personal challenges with professional aspirations while maintaining focus on her team.

The award for the Young Leader category went to Pia Reuß (Speira). Pia impressed not only with her leadership skills, but also with the development of an internal network that connects and strengthens women at Speira. She shows how young leaders can have a lasting impact on the industry.

Ramona Tosone (AMAG Austria Metall AG) was honoured as a Sustainable & Innovative Leader for her outstanding contributions in the field of innovation and sustainability. With her focus on environmentally friendly aluminium solutions and her pioneering role in the implementation of modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, she is setting new standards for the future of the industry.

Carlos André Valim (Alcoa) was honoured as Male Ally. He has proven to be a special role model for all men who are actively committed to gender equality. Through his dedicated work in the Alcoa Women's Network, he makes a significant contribution to making the working environment more inclusive and fairer.

Diversity and inclusion as the foundation of a strong industry

The "Women With Metal Awards" symbolise change and underscore the growing importance of diversity within the aluminium industry.

These awardees exemplify the positive advancements within the aluminium sector, demonstrating that diversity, innovation, and dedication are keys to a successful future.

“For us as organisers and as a platform for the industry, it is crucial to create visibility for women in the field, encourage them, and boost their confidence. This is how we can collectively dismantle barriers that we still encounter in male-dominated sectors. It's about giving women the space they deserve and showing them they are heard and supported,” emphasised Yasmin Ouiriemmi, Project Manager of ALUMINIUM. “Only by joining forces can we continue to advance and strengthen the industry for the long term.”