Women in Engineering: Ana Drmota Petrič on Recycled Magnets

Engineering careers do not always follow a clear path from the beginning. For many, interest in science develops gradually and is shaped by curiosity, support, and experience over time.

As part of our Women in Engineering series, we spoke with Ana Drmota Petrič, a project manager working in industrial research. In the HARMONY project, she contributes to developing recycled magnetic materials for real-world applications.

Ana shares how her interest in science evolved, what motivates her work in industry, and why perseverance matters more than early certainty when choosing a career in engineering.

Profile

Name: Ana Drmota Petrič

Role: Project Manager (Research & Industry)

Organisation: Kolektor Mobility

Country: Slovenia

Field: Materials science and industrial applications

Education: Materials Science

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-drmota-petri%C4%8D-3b59aaab/

Finding a path into engineering

Did you always know you wanted to work in a STEM field, or did your career path evolve over time?

“I didn’t always know that I wanted to work in a STEM field. As a teenager, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do as an adult, which is why I chose to attend a general high school (gymnasium). During my high school years, I gradually discovered that I was particularly interested in chemistry, physics, and the natural sciences. This growing interest ultimately led me to pursue a degree in materials science.”

Her decision was shaped by encouragement from the people around her, who recognised her strengths early on.

“My parents and my high school teachers played an important role in encouraging me to pursue materials science. They recognized my interest in the natural sciences and supported me in developing it further, which gave me the confidence to choose this field of study.”

From studies to engineering research

Was there a moment during your studies when you realised you had chosen the right field?

“After completing my undergraduate studies, I met my mentor while working on the experimental part of my bachelor’s thesis. He offered me the opportunity to continue collaborating through postgraduate studies, and that was the moment when I realised I had truly chosen the right field.”

“It confirmed my interest in research and motivated me to enrol in a postgraduate programme.”

Today, Ana applies that research background in an industrial setting, where structured thinking and problem-solving are essential.

What skills or experiences from your education helped you most in your current work?

“The competencies I gained during my studies include a systematic and analytical approach to problem-solving, which has been especially valuable in addressing challenges in the automotive industry, where I have been working for more than ten years.”

Contributing to magnet recycling and circular technologies

Ana’s role in the HARMONY project connects research with industrial application.

“My work in the HARMONY project focuses on developing plastic-bonded magnetic materials made from 100% recycled rare-earth powder produced by other project partners.”

“Our company therefore acts as a key link between the partners who manufacture the recycled powder and the end users of plastic-bonded magnets, ensuring that the materials can be successfully processed and applied in real industrial applications.”

What excites you most about contributing to magnet recycling and circular technologies?

“What excites me most is the opportunity to be among the first in Europe to produce plastic-bonded magnets from rare-earth powders recycled entirely within Europe.”

“The demonstrator we will develop will be tested by project partners in a real-life application, specifically in a household appliance, which makes the research highly tangible and directly connected to industrial use.”

What stands out in Ana’s work is her focus on impact. She not only contributes to innovation but also understands the importance of making that innovation visible and usable. Her work in innovation has already led to tangible recognition.

What is one achievement that you are particularly proud of?

“One achievement I am particularly proud of is receiving a silver award at the national level for an innovation developed through our work. This recognition confirmed the technical value of the solution and the impact of our team’s efforts, and it was a strong motivation to continue developing innovative and sustainable technologies.”

Women in engineering

What message would you give to girls who are unsure whether engineering is ‘for them’?

“I would encourage girls and young women to trust their own interests and curiosity rather than external expectations. If they feel even a small pull toward engineering or technical studies, they should pursue it with confidence and without questioning whether they are ‘good enough.’

“A common misconception about STEM careers is that they are only for exceptionally gifted people or for those who have everything figured out at a very young age.”

“Success in these careers is not about being perfect from the beginning, but about curiosity, perseverance, and a willingness to keep learning.”

Advice for future engineers

Looking back at her own path, Ana would give one important piece of advice.

“My advice to girls considering a technical or engineering path is to listen to their own interests and not let stereotypes or external opinions hold them back. Allow yourself to explore, ask questions, and try—even if you don’t feel completely confident at first.”

“Technical skills can be learned over time, and confidence grows with experience. Engineering offers creativity, impact, and long-term opportunities, both professionally and personally.”

About the series

This interview is part of the HARMONY Women in Engineering series, highlighting the diverse women working across Europe to advance magnet recycling and circular technologies.