International Women's Day 2026
To mark International Women’s Day on 8 March, at TESA ASSA ABLOY we would like to recognise the efforts of all the men and women who are working to build an increasingly diverse and inclusive company.
In the industrial sector, the representation of women remains uneven, which is why we continue to take decisive steps to ensure equal opportunities and break down barriers in a field that has historically been male-dominated. This commitment is reflected in the pledges set out in the Equality Plan, which enshrines diversity as a strategic value of our company.
Today we are highlighting the career of Aizpea Arregi, a Data Analyst in Operations, a field where women remain under-represented. Her daily contributions demonstrate that diversity drives innovation, strengthens teams and fosters a culture where everyone can learn, grow and realise their potential. Aizpea completed a double degree in Business Administration and Computer Science at the University of Deusto and joined TESA ASSA ABLOY in 2019.
We spoke to Aizpea and are sharing the interview below:
What inspired you to take this course?
“While I was at sixth form, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I was interested in law and a few engineering disciplines. When I saw that the University of Deusto was launching this dual degree for the first time, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to avoid having to choose just one path and to keep exploring different areas.”
What made you choose data and technology in an industrial setting?
“My interest in the field of data stemmed from my career path. After graduating, I started working at IBM, a technology company, and later worked as a Business Intelligence (BI) consultant at a Basque consultancy firm. Working in consultancy allows you to gain insight into different sectors, and that experience encouraged me to make the move to a more industrial environment.”
What do you like most about your role as a Data Analyst?
“The opportunity to engage with all areas of the company. It’s really interesting to learn about the work of those around me.”
What has your experience been like in a field where women are under-represented?
“Unfortunately, it doesn’t surprise me: in my science and technology A-levels, there were only four girls in a class of 22, and that pattern has been repeated in most of the roles I’ve held. Fortunately, I’ve been lucky enough to have exceptional colleagues along the way. But it’s also true that I’ve learnt a great deal from the few women I’ve had the privilege of working with.”
How does gender diversity benefit teams?
“I firmly believe that life experiences shape how we understand the world around us and tackle challenges. Today, gender continues to influence some of those experiences, and this diversity of perspectives offers a different way of analysing problems and making decisions. Incorporating these perspectives into a team enriches the discussion, broadens the range of possible solutions and strengthens collective outcomes.”
What message would you convey to women who are currently training?
“There’s room for everyone. Although the environment may sometimes seem hostile or reserved, it isn’t. There’s a lot to be done, and every perspective brings something valuable to the table. The most important thing is to encourage learning from an early age, promoting exploration of all areas without prejudice or bias.”
What initiatives do you consider key to increasing the number of women in the industry?
“Strengthening collaboration with educational institutions so that future generations can gain a first-hand understanding of the real opportunities the industry offers.
However, it is also essential to emphasise that, unless society as a whole supports this process, it will be difficult to achieve sustainable progress. We must focus on systematic solutions that comprehensively address the challenge of care work, which even today still falls mainly on women.”
