Engineering careers often begin with curiosity about how the world works. For some researchers, that curiosity leads to discoveries that shape the technologies we rely on every day.
As part of our Women in Engineering series, we spoke with Gabriela Sarriegui, a materials engineer and researcher at CEIT Research Center. In the HARMONY project, she works on developing new routes to recycle permanent magnets, key components in technologies such as electronics, renewable energy systems, and electric vehicles.
Gabriela shares how she found her path into engineering, what motivates her work on magnet recycling, and what advice she would give to young women considering a career in STEM.
Profile
Name: Gabriela Sarriegui
Role: Researcher
Organisation: CEIT Research Center
Country: Spain
Field: Materials engineering and magnet recycling
Education: PhD in Applied Engineering, University of Navarra
Finding a path into engineering
Many engineers start with curiosity about how things work. For Gabriela, that curiosity appeared early.
“My curiosity about how things work and how engineering can be used to solve real-world problems sparked my interest in science and engineering. So I always knew I wanted to work in a STEM-related field, which is why I chose to study materials engineering and later pursue a PhD in applied engineering.”
Family also played a role in shaping that decision.
“My father inspired me to choose this career path, as he was an industrial engineer.”
What was one key challenge you faced on your way into STEM and how did you overcome it?
“One key challenge I faced was moving into a new area within materials engineering. During my studies I focused on polymers, but for my PhD I started working on magnetic materials This required adapting my processing knowledge and deepening my understanding of magnetism. I overcame this by continuous learning and applying what I learned directly to my research.”
From studies to engineering research
“I studied materials engineering because I was interested in understanding how different materials work and how they can be designed and processed to solve real-world problems. I knew this was the right field for me when I started working in the materials lab and learning about different processing techniques.”
What skills or experiences from your education helped you most in your current work?
“My education gave me a solid foundation in materials science and processing. It also helped me develop key skills like conducting experiments in a lab, data analysis, preparing technical reports and scientific articles, and presenting at conferences.”
So what does a typical day look like for a materials engineer working in research?
“I work on researching and developing magnetic materials for industrial applications. My typical day can include conducting experiments, analyzing data, writing reports and/or scientific articles, preparing presentations for conferences, attending project meetings or meetings with potential clients, supervising theses, and preparing new proposals.”
Contributing to magnet recycling and circular technologies
Gabriela joined the HARMONY project through academic collaboration. Her research focuses on developing new ways to recycle permanent magnets used in modern technologies.
“I became involved in the HARMONY project through the PhD thesis of Diego Monzón, which I co-supervise together with José Manuel Martín.”
“My work in HARMONY focuses on developing a direct recycling route for Nd-Fe-B magnets via gas atomization
Gas atomization … More for three different types of magnet applications. This research is important because Europe currently depends heavily on China for these critical materials, which are essential for key technologies, such as electronics, renewable energy, and electric mobility.”
“What excites me most about contributing to magnet recycling research is the potential impact this research can have on society, particularly in Europe. By improving recycling technologies, we can increase resource security, reduce environmental impact, and support sustainable technological development across multiple industries.”
Women in engineering
Engineering benefits from different perspectives, and Gabriela values the opportunity to contribute her own.
What do you enjoy most about being a woman working in science and engineering?
“I enjoy being part of a field I love, and I also appreciate the opportunity to bring my own perspective as a woman. There are aspects and details in STEM that women may notice or approach differently, and I value contributing that perspective. I also enjoy inspiring others, especially young women, and showing that STEM is diverse and inclusive.”
Like many women in technical fields, she has experienced both challenges and strong support.
“I have sometimes felt that being a woman in STEM was challenging, but I have also received strong support and encouragement from colleagues and mentors. These experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance, confidence, and of supporting others to help create a more inclusive environment.”
Advice for future engineers
What message would you give to girls who are unsure whether engineering is for them?
“I would tell them that engineering is for anyone who is curious and enjoys solving problems. STEM is not limited by gender; everyone can contribute with their best skills. If you are interested in making a positive impact and exploring your potential, it can be a challenging, exciting and sometimes rewarding path.”
She also challenges one of the most common stereotypes about STEM careers.
“I think a common misconception is that STEM is only for people who are naturally good at science subjects. What matters most is curiosity, a genuine interest in learning, and a commitment to working hard; anyone who is curious and dedicated can make meaningful contributions in STEM.”
So what advice would she give directly to girls considering engineering?
“I would tell them not to be afraid to explore STEM and, if they still exist, not to let stereotypes hold them back. Do not be afraid, keep pursuing what you love, and embrace opportunities as they will take you far, like moving from Venezuela to Spain. Believing in yourself and your abilities helps you overcome challenges, take initiative, and make a meaningful impact in STEM.”
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.
Read more interviews:
Women in Engineering: Simonetta Cota on design, creativity, and circular engineering
Women in Engineering: Pranali Jadhav on international careers and process engineering
Women in Engineering: Ana Drmota Petrič on developing recycled magnets for industry
Women in Engineering: Aurélie Villemur on materials engineering and electric motors
Women in Engineering: Giulia Cortina on sustainability and life cycle assessment
Women in Engineering: Valentina Zhukova on magnetic materials and long careers in research