Women in the Plastics Industry: More Diversity, More Future

The plastics and rubber industry faces a double challenge: while the shortage of skilled workers in technical professions is steadily increasing, the potential of female workers remains untapped in many places. The industry is still very male-dominated – especially in management positions. Studies show that more women in technical professions could not only help to close the skills gap, but also bring new perspectives and innovative strength to companies.

With the 'Women in Plastics' initiative, K 2025 is putting this topic at the centre of its own event format for the first time – sending a strong signal for more diversity and visibility in the industry.

The proportion of women in the plastics industry and in technical professions in general is alarmingly low worldwide:

Female specialists and managers are therefore still rare – yet, especially in times of skilled labour shortages, companies could benefit significantly from attracting more women to technical and scientific professions, as Bettina Dempewolf from PlasticsEurope Germany emphasises: "Female managers in particular are still rare. Yet companies benefit from greater diversity, new impetus and different perspectives, not least in view of the increasing shortage of skilled workers."

With the new event format 'Women in Plastics', K 2025 is putting the spotlight on the visibility and networking of women in the plastics and rubber industry for the first time. On Sunday, 12 October 2025, the world's leading trade fair will invite women from the industry to an inspiring networking event – in the middle of the special show 'Plastics shape the Future' in Hall 6.

The event is aimed at young talents, specialists and executives alike. It offers a platform for exchange, mutual inspiration and new career prospects. The programme includes a keynote speech, a panel discussion with internationally renowned speakers, best practice examples and personal networking opportunities over drinks and snacks.

With this event, the trade fair is sending an important signal for greater equality and giving women in the industry a stage – not only for their concerns, but also for their successes.

Whether in research, management or sustainability, the speakers at Women in Plastics exemplify female competence and diversity in the industry. Eight experts from across Europe will share their experiences, challenges and successes at K 2025:

• Stephanie Kalil (Dow): Strategist and manager with a focus on circular economy and decarbonisation
• Miriam Olivi (Frigosystem Corema): Managing Director and President of Women in Plastics Italy – international industry expert
• Samira Uharek (ARBURG): Sustainability manager with a technical background and a focus on CO₂
• Anabel Crespo Soler (AIMPLAS): Technology manager with expertise in sustainable materials and research
• Mirjam Mayer (Borealis): Responsible for Circular Economy Solutions – thought leader for transformation
• Angelika Huemer (Starlinger): CEO with decades of leadership experience and an eye for innovation
• Laura Flórez (ICIPC): Mechanical engineer, researcher and industry networker
• Kerstin Sochor (Austrian Plastics Journal): Moderator, editor and co-initiator of sustainable networks

They all inspire and demonstrate that women are actively shaping the future of the plastics industry.

The shortage of skilled workers is hitting the plastics and rubber industry hard – but at the same time, new opportunities are emerging: through greater visibility, targeted promotion and networking of women in the industry. The ‘Women in Plastics’ event at K 2025 is more than just an item on the agenda – it is a clear signal for change.

Initiatives like this show how important role models, exchange and structural support are in order to better utilise female potential. Companies that focus on diversity not only benefit from more innovative teams, but also from greater sustainability.

K 2025 shows how it can be done – and invites all women in the industry to join in, network and become visible. Because only together can the plastics industry be made more diverse, attractive and sustainable.