What challenges do women face in advancing within the energy sector in Central Asia?
How can men become allies in promoting gender equality?
What steps can be taken to improve education and training, bringing more women and girls into STEM fields?

These were some of the key questions explored during a two-day regional workshop for women in the energy sector at the Almaty University of Power Engineering and Telecommunications (AUPET), as part of the USAID Power Central Asia Activity. A total of 40 women from Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, representing Ministries of Energy, utilities, energy companies, universities, and professional associations, traveled to Almaty to share their experiences and brainstorm solutions for a more inclusive, innovative energy future. USAID Deputy Director of Economic Development Office, Derrick Pfeffer, and AUPET Rector, Gani Nygymetov, opened the event, reaffirming the importance of women leaders sharing spaces for empowerment.

The energy sector is crucial for economic growth and stability. Increasing women’s participation provides a competitive advantage for the industry, as studies show that companies investing in women’s employment and leadership see benefits like access to more talented professionals, stronger innovation, and better decision-making at the leadership level. Together with local partners, USAID helps build a supportive community where women can network, share experiences, and grow together as leaders in energy.