The ELEVATE project aims to bridge the gender gap in net-zero technologies within the Smart Electricity for Buildings (SEB) sector by enhancing vocational education and training (VET) opportunities for women. It seeks to address the underrepresentation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields—especially in the renewable energy and smart electricity domains—by implementing targeted educational programs, mentorship initiatives, and awareness campaigns
Key Objectives
- Assess Gender Disparities in VET for Net-Zero Technologies: Conduct research on female participation, barriers, and opportunities in the SEB sector.
- Develop a Mentorship Framework: Create structured mentorship programs to support women in entering and advancing in net-zero careers.
- Design and Implement Targeted VET Programs: Develop specialized curricula to train women mentors in green technologies, ensuring they acquire relevant skills.
- Promote Role Models: Showcase successful women in net-zero industries and provide mentorship to inspire more participation.
- Establish Partnerships and Networks: Collaborate with VET providers, policymakers, industries, and educational institutions to foster career pathways.
- Enhance Awareness and Advocacy: Launch campaigns to challenge gender stereotypes in STEM and encourage women’s participation.
Methodology & Implementation
The ELEVATE project will use a structured approach based on research, training, mentorship, and advocacy. Its methodology includes:
- Conducting baseline studies to understand the barriers preventing women from pursuing careers in net-zero technologies.
- Developing a training curriculum and mentorship program to provide guidance and skills development.
- Using Design Thinking techniques to tailor education and career pathways for women.
- Organizing networking and knowledge-exchange workshops to engage industry leaders, educators, and trainees.
- Running awareness campaigns to attract more women into VET programs focused on net-zero technologies.
The project will be implemented across multiple European regions, leveraging the expertise of a diverse consortium of VET providers, universities, research institutions, and policy-makers.
Expected Impact
- Increased participation of women in net-zero technology-related VET programs.
- Improved access to mentorship, training, and career opportunities for women in the SEB sector.
- Stronger collaborations between educational institutions, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
- Development of policy recommendations and strategic frameworks to sustain gender inclusion in net-zero industries beyond the project’s duration.
Transnational Dimension & Sustainability
The project will operate across multiple European regions, including Greece, Italy, Spain, Germany, North Macedonia, and Portugal. By establishing international partnerships and integrating gender-inclusive policies into VET curricula, ELEVATE aims to ensure long-term systemic change in green technology education and employment.
This initiative represents a critical step towards fostering gender equality in the green energy sector while addressing Europe’s need for a skilled workforce in net-zero technologies.
