Опрос общественного мнения зафиксировал серьезный сдвиг в настроениях женщин. Практически каждая вторая жительница страны допускает для себя карьеру на заводе или руднике. Эксперты связывают перемены с новыми проектами, которые делают видимыми тех, кто уже работает в цехах и забоях.
According to the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VTsIOM), 45% of surveyed women said industrial occupations are fully or partially suitable for them. At the same time, a substantial gender imbalance remains in certain professions. Among drivers and operators of heavy mobile equipment, women are outnumbered by men by a factor of 42.
Industrial occupations remain one of the sectors where traditional gender stereotypes are especially persistent. These perceptions influence both recruitment decisions and women’s confidence when considering careers in technical fields. However, the picture is gradually changing as more initiatives showcase successful female professionals.
One such initiative is the “25 Inspiring Women” list, presented in spring 2026 by Forbes Woman in partnership with the Women in Modern Industry Association. The ranking recognizes women building successful careers in manufacturing, science, environmental protection, and occupational safety. Finalists were selected across five categories: Manufacturing, Management, Breakthrough of the Year, First in Her Field, and Science, Technology & Digital Innovation.
Two employees of Norilsk Nickel were included among the winners. Olga Severinova, Chief Process Engineer at the company’s Kola operations in Monchegorsk, plays a key role in a major project aimed at increasing the production of precious metals.
Another honoree is Evgeniya Kazanina. Originally trained as a history and law teacher, she made a dramatic career change in 2012 by qualifying as a mine shaft operator and joining the Skalisty mine. Today, she is responsible for the safe transportation of personnel and materials through the mine shaft and has led her own crew since 2023.
Kazanina attributes her success to professionalism, composure, and teamwork. Working underground involves constant pressure and significant responsibility for every stage of hoisting operations. In her view, safety depends on maintaining discipline, communicating effectively with colleagues, and remaining calm under pressure. Technical expertise alone is not enough—the profession also requires resilience and strong character.
The stories of women managing complex industrial operations and leading technical teams demonstrate more convincingly than any campaign that gender is not the defining factor in industrial careers. Knowledge, competence, responsibility, and leadership are what truly matter.
Source: Nornickel
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