Supporting Women in Latin America's Battery Industry: WGBI's Mission and Growing Regional Presence

The global battery industry stands at a transformative crossroads, driven by technological innovation and an increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions. Within this dynamic landscape, Women in the Global Battery Industry (WGBI) emerges as a vital force, dedicated to advancing women's participation and leadership across all sectors of the battery industry.

As WGBI expands its reach into Latin America, the organization brings a proven framework for professional development, networking, and industry advancement that promises to reshape the regional landscape for women in battery technology.

About Women in the Global Battery Industry (WGBI)

Founded with the vision of promoting and developing the growth of women in the battery industry, WGBI operates on the fundamental belief that women in similar industries can derive significant benefits for themselves and their companies through relationship building, education, and shared knowledge. The organization serves as a professional network that connects women across the global battery industry, from research scientists and engineers to executives and entrepreneurs.

WGBI's mission centers on four foundational pillars that have proven successful in advancing women's careers and strengthening industry connections worldwide:

Networking forms the cornerstone of WGBI's approach, creating meaningful connections through dedicated networking events, including the annual Women in the Lead Battery Industry Networking Reception held at the BCI Convention + Power Mart Expo and during BCI Fall Committee Week. These gatherings provide platforms for professionals to build relationships that extend beyond traditional business interactions.

Professional Growth opportunities through committee participation develop leadership and communication skills in an environment specifically designed to foster personal and professional advancement. Members gain valuable experience in organizational leadership while contributing to the industry's collective knowledge base.

Education initiatives provide continuous learning opportunities through webinars, in-person meetings, and structured discussions with subject matter experts. Topics range from personal development and current battery industry challenges to high-level technical content, ensuring members stay at the forefront of industry developments.

Mentorship programs identify and elevate role models who inspire the next generation through formal one-on-one mentor-mentee partnerships. A comprehensive database of mentors includes profile areasof expertise for both professional member skill development and student mentoring programs.

Through these pillars, WGBI creates an ecosystem where women can access resources, build relationships, and advance their careers while contributing to the industry's overall growth and innovation.

WGBI's Historic Debut at FENIBAT 2025

WGBI marked a significant milestone with its inaugural appearance at FENIBAT 2025 in Londrina, Brazil, celebrating the successful launch of its Latin America Chapter and demonstrating the strong appetite for

women's professional development in the regional battery industry.

A Reception That United the Region

The centerpiece of WGBI's FENIBAT experience was the Latin America Reception, which drew over 40 attendees from Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Colombia, Argentina, and beyond. This gathering represented a historic moment for women in the regional battery industry, bringing together professionals from diverse sectors to celebrate the chapter launch and forge meaningful connections.

Grace Rocha, WGBI Latin America Chapter Leader, and Eugenia Montes, a chapter member, delivered opening remarks that emphasized the critical importance of connecting women in the industry while outlining the opportunities WGBI offers as the organization expands globally. The evening's personal atmosphere was enhanced when each attendee introduced themselves with a passed microphone, creating genuine connections among participants that will serve as the foundation for ongoing regional collaboration.

The reception's success was made possible through generous sponsorship from Grupo Moura and WGBI's sustaining sponsors, demonstrating strong industry support for the organization's mission and the recognition of women's vital role in the battery industry's future.

WGBI Leadership Takes Center Stage

WGBI members showcased their expertise across FENIBAT's main stage, representing the depth and breadth of the organization's leadership in various aspects of the battery industry.

Grace Rocha delivered a compelling presentation sharing the vision behind the Latin America chapter launch, exploring the mission and goals of the new chapter while underscoring the critical need for representation and support for women throughout the battery industry. As R&D Leader at ITEMM, Rocha brings deep technical expertise in electrochemistry and manufacturing processes, having discovered her passion for these fields during her career development.

Paloma Barbieri, Production & Operations Director at Baterias Pioneiro and new WGBI Latin America member, presented on the future of energy, examining the journey of lead-acid batteries and the advancement of AGM technology. Her presentation explored critical developments in battery technology and energy storage solutions, exemplifying the type of leadership and expertise that WGBI seeks to elevate within the Latin American battery industry.

Melissa Oliveira, Americas Sales Manager for Energy Storage & Industrial Filtration at Ahlstrom, presented on fiber-based solutions for the lead-acid battery industry. As both a WGBI member and leader in the field, Oliveira represents the expertise and innovation that characterizes the organization's membership, highlighting cutting-edge developments in battery technology applications.

Addressing Regional Challenges and Opportunities

The Latin America Chapter, officially launched in January 2025, addresses unique challenges facing women in the region's battery industry. Rocha has identified specific barriers including cultural norms, limited resources, and a significant gap between academia and industry that creates additional obstacles for women pursuing careers in technology.

Unlike regions where industries actively sponsor university projects, Latin American universities often lack similar support, limiting the development of laboratories and researchers. To address these challenges, WGBI envisions playing a crucial role in increasing the visibility of the battery industry in academic settings, potentially attracting more women to the sector while strengthening the connection between research and practical applications.

The combination of the well-attended reception, powerful main stage presentations, and enthusiastic industry support demonstrated significant appetite for WGBI's mission throughout the region. Industry recognition, including support from Lee Puckett at Atomized Products Group Inc. and continued backing from APG, underscores the growing acknowledgment of WGBI's important role in fostering diversity and inclusion within the battery sector.

Join the Movement: An Invitation to South American Women

As WGBI continues to expand its global impact while addressing unique regional needs and opportunities, the organization extends a special invitation to women throughout South America who are not yet part of this growing community. The success at FENIBAT 2025 marks both a celebration of current achievements and a launching pad for the future of women's leadership in the global battery industry.

Why Join WGBI?

Membership in WGBI provides access to a comprehensive network of professionals dedicated to advancing women's careers in the battery industry. Members benefit from:

- Strategic Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, researchers, and entrepreneurs through regional events and global gatherings

- Professional Development: Participate in committees and leadership roles that build essential skills for career advancement

- Continuous Learning: Access webinars, technical presentations, and discussions with subject matter experts

- Mentorship Connections: Both serve as a mentor to emerging professionals and receive guidance from established industry leaders

- Regional Focus: Participate in Latin America-specific initiatives that address regional challenges and opportunities

Membership Made Simple

WGBI offers accessible membership options designed to welcome professionals at all career stages:

- Industry Professionals: $100 annually

- Academic Community: $35 annually

Joining WGBI means becoming part of a global network that recognizes the critical importance of women's contributions to the battery industry's future. As the Latin America Chapter continues to grow, early members will have unique opportunities to shape the direction of regional initiatives and build the foundational relationships that will define the chapter's impact.

Ready to Get Involved?

The Latin America Chapter operates under the leadership of Grace Rocha, research scientist in advanced batteries at ITEMM, who is spearheading regional initiatives designed to create meaningful opportunities for professional growth and industry advancement. To become a WGBI member and join this powerful, supportive community that drives innovation and career growth, visit:

https://www.womeninbatteries.org/News-Updates/2025-Dues-Payment

Building the Future Together

The launch of WGBI's Latin America Chapter represents more than an organizational expansion—it signals a commitment to recognizing and nurturing the talent, expertise, and leadership potential of women throughout South America's battery industry. From research laboratories to manufacturing facilities, from startup companies to established corporations, women are driving innovation and excellence across every aspect of the battery technology landscape.

As the global battery industry continues to evolve and expand, the importance of diverse perspectives, collaborative approaches, and inclusive leadership becomes increasingly clear. WGBI's proven framework of networking, professional growth, education, and mentorship provides the foundation for building stronger careers, more innovative companies, and a more dynamic industry overall.

The connections forged at FENIBAT 2025 will serve as building blocks for expanded programming, enhanced mentorship opportunities, and stronger regional networks that will benefit women across Latin America for years to come. With industry support, organizational expertise, and the enthusiasm demonstrated throughout the region, WGBI's Latin America Chapter is positioned to become a transformative force in advancing women's leadership in the global battery industry.

For women working in South America's battery industry, the opportunity to join this movement represents an investment in both personal career growth and the collective advancement of the industry. Together, WGBI members are building a future where women's contributions are recognized, celebrated, and essential to the continued success of the global battery industry.

WGBI Photos