When people think about solar energy, they often picture photovoltaic panels stretching across the landscape. Less visible are the engineers, researchers, and innovators working behind the scenes to make those systems smarter, safer, and more efficient. On International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026, TALOS highlights the contribution of women helping drive this transformation.
Across Europe, the transition towards cleaner energy systems is creating new opportunities for technological innovation. From artificial intelligence and robotics to advanced data analytics, engineers are developing solutions that can help renewable energy infrastructure operate more effectively and reliably.
This is precisely the challenge being addressed by TALOS. The project is developing an integrated digital platform that combines robotics, artificial intelligence, and sensor data to support human operators in the operation and maintenance of photovoltaic power plants. By bringing together expertise from across Europe, TALOS aims to improve efficiency, optimise maintenance activities, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of solar energy generation.
Among the professionals contributing to this work is Cláudia Fernandes, R&D Specialist at EDP and member of the TALOS consortium. Reflecting on her experience as an engineer, she emphasises the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and pursuing one’s passions.
“I would encourage women to follow their passion and explore engineering’s vast opportunities to create, build, and discover new technologies. Stay curious, keep learning, and embrace growth, as it is a rewarding career that offers continuous progress with endless possibilities.”
Her message resonates with the spirit of International Women in Engineering Day, which seeks not only to recognise the achievements of women already working in the field but also to encourage future generations to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Engineering remains at the heart of many of the technologies shaping Europe’s future. Whether developing renewable energy systems, advancing robotics, or designing intelligent digital tools, engineers play a central role in transforming ideas into practical solutions capable of addressing real-world challenges.
Projects such as TALOS also highlight the importance of ensuring that talent can thrive regardless of gender. Innovation benefits from a broad range of experiences, perspectives, and approaches, particularly in fields where complex challenges require multidisciplinary collaboration and creative thinking.
For young women considering a future in engineering, visibility matters. Seeing researchers and engineers actively contributing to major European initiatives can help demonstrate not only the diversity of career opportunities available but also the tangible impact that engineering can have on society.
