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Why did you join the Women Automotive Network?
I started my career in the automotive industry which remained a red wire throughout my career and became a passion. Unfortunately, there are still not enough women engineers in this field and in the tech industry in general. I joined the Women Automotive Network to meet inspiring women, participate in insightful discussions about DE&I, extend my network, and my horizons. It is amazing to meet so many women automotive professionals in one event.
Why is DE&I important to you?
DE&I is important to me because the biggest challenges in society can be addressed only when organizations embrace fully diversity and inclusion. At Altair, we believe that diverse perspectives and experiences help us innovate, problem-solve, and achieve endless possibilities. I believe that society must address equity issues in order to create a better world where anyone can be the catalyst for the change.
What is the number one automotive trend you are keeping up with currently?
I am very focused on exploring new mobility solutions with a focus on sustainability, CO2 footprint reduction, and smart factory solutions.
What are your predictions for the automotive industry in 2022?
Unfortunately, due to geopolitical situation in Europe, the automotive industry and the whole supply chain faces big challenges. From my perspective, the biggest challenges for the industry are energy, raw materials, and costs. I am impressed by the tenacity, hard work, ingenuity, and social engagement of companies seeking to find solutions. The best we can do is to remain focused and fully engaged.
Who is your inspirational woman?
There is most definitely not only one inspirational woman in my life. I am surrounded by many women with different backgrounds and from family and friends’ circles who inspires me every day. As for public figures, I am inspired by Michele Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Judi Dench, Jessica Chastain, Emma Watson, Angelina Jolie, Skylar Grey, and Queen Elizabeth II. My everyday power sources are my mum, my sister, and my closest friends Diana and Adele. Additionally, my grandmothers were always my safe harbor.
What is your proudest career moment?
I am very proud to have been acknowledged as a role model. I feel a lot of responsibility to lead by example and hope to inspire younger generations in technology.
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome?
One of my greatest challenges is to trust my intuition. One example is when I took a 16-hour bus trip from Lyon to Prague to present my study project at the French Embassy. Indeed, I got first a negative answer from my university in Czech Republic to continue my studies in France after a year of Erasmus, an EU exchange program. At the end I got the grant as well as the consent from my university. This was really a turning point in my life which enabled me to be where I am today.
What was your first car?
My first car was a SKODA Fabia. I come from the Czech Republic and my heart is powered by green blood when it comes to cars. Ever since, I drive a SKODA, currently the Octavia III and I plan to purchase this model again. It’s a great car!
In one word, what is the opportunity for women in automotive currently?
Transformation!
What advice would you offer to those considering starting a career within the automotive industry?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, in fact you should ask a lot of questions. Build a wide network, go to conferences and forums. For example, WomenPower Career Congress at Hannover Messe is a great platform also for young professionals. Talk about what you do, talk about what you want, talk about what makes you get up every morning. Do not consider “no” as a final answer.
Feel free to follow Kamila Flidr on LinkedIn
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