Aramco Europe is helping to encourage more girls into STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers in Spain through its support of a long-term educational project that draws on the practical experiences of women in industry.
Delivered by the ASTI Talent & Tech Foundation, STEM Talent Girl accompanies girls from their early secondary school years through to university or vocational training.
Each year, the program reaches approximately 1,700 students, supported by around 600 mentors and 400 educational institutions, alongside companies and families who all play their part in shaping student experiences.
Global citizenship
The advancement of STEM is a central pillar of Aramco’s global citizenship program and is built on the belief that these core disciplines are essential to the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills across multiple sectors and industries.
Rubén Martínez, Executive Director of ASTI Talent & Tech Foundation, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Aramco Europe on this hugely impactful initiative which reflects our shared commitment to nurturing the skills that drive innovation.
“By increasing awareness of STEM and illuminating real career pathways taken by our mentors, we aim to connect participants with experienced professionals, turning abstract ambitions into tangible goals. Aramco Europe’s support helps to strengthen program delivery, expand its visibility and connect students with industry insights that bring STEM careers to life. It is an approach that can be truly transformative.
Research shows that a lack of visible role models is a key barrier to girls pursuing STEM careers. The program addresses this issue by drawing on the experiences of women working in various STEM sectors, who volunteer their time and serve as powerful role models, helping to dismantle stereotypes and inspire students.
Engagement gap
UNESCO’s Women and STEM 2025 report highlights that the gap in girls’ engagement with STEM subjects emerges during secondary school and tends to widen over time, if left unaddressed.
According to Spain’s Ministry of Universities, only 9% of female university graduates have STEM degrees, compared to 31% of men.
Beyond inspiration, STEM Talent Girl equips participants with critical skills needed for success in the modern workforce. Through initiatives such as the STEM Projects Challenge, students develop projects addressing real-world challenges - from climate change to sustainable innovation - while building competencies in communication, critical thinking and creativity.
Over its lifetime, the program has reached more than 9,000 students and achieved consistently high levels of satisfaction and engagement. Participants are significantly more likely to pursue STEM studies compared to their peers, more than twice as likely to aspire to study engineering and four times more likely to pursue ICT degrees.
Currently operating in multiple regions, including; Madrid, Valencia, Málaga, Zaragoza, Galicia and across Castilla y León - the program continues to grow. Future initiatives, such as the planned expansion into Bilbao, aim to extend the program’s reach even further, bringing opportunities to more students and communities.
By investing in young women today, the collaboration is helping to build a more inclusive and dynamic STEM workforce for tomorrow.
