Ahead of International Women’s Rights Day, Latecoere reaffirms its commitment to gender equality.
While progress has been made, challenges persist. To support this transformation, a mentorship program led by female members of the Executive Committee was recently launched, fostering the development of female talent and empowering them to grow within the company.
Through a series of interviews, three women at Latecoere share their perspectives on professional equality and highlight the concrete actions driving diversity forward. Three voices, one shared ambition: making change happen.
Photo credit: Latecoere
You recently made an international move from Brazil to Mexico to take on new professional challenges. How has this transition been for you professionally?
Natalie Silva: Like any major change, relocating to another country has been both a challenge and a great opportunity for my career. The decision was well thought out, considering the cultural and social similarities between Brazil and Mexico. Professionally, transitioning from our Aerostructures site in Jacareí, Brazil, to our Detailed Parts site in Hermosillo, Mexico, has been significant. The manufacturing technologies and processes are completely different from what I was accustomed to. However, I felt confident in making this move because I knew I would still be within the Latecoere group—a company with a strong cultural foundation across all its sites, built on safety and customer satisfaction. That gave me a sense of security, even knowing I would face new challenges.
And personally, what has the move been like?
N. S.: On a personal level, while Brazil is rich in culture, this move has given my family the chance to expand our horizons and experience new ways of life. I believe this exposure will shape them into more open-minded and well-rounded individuals.
Fortunately, I have received incredible support from my new colleagues in Hermosillo, which has helped make this transition smoother. Their guidance has given me the confidence to focus on delivering results and contributing effectively. Looking ahead, I am convinced that this was the right decision.
Latecoere, with a presence in 14 countries, is an inherently diverse and multicultural company. How can this international dimension help foster inclusion and combat gender bias?
N. S.: With its 100-year history and strong multicultural presence, Latecoere has always been mindful of gender inclusion. When I first joined the group in 2006, warmly welcomed by our HR manager in Brazil—who is a woman—I was struck by its open-minded approach to gender equality. At Latecoere, we have women in key roles at all operational levels, actively making decisions and shaping the company’s strategy. This kind of representation truly drives change—it allows women to see tangible career possibilities and reinforces the idea that we have the same opportunities as men.
As a global company, Latecoere has a unique opportunity to lead the way in gender inclusion by creating more initiatives, enhancing communication about its talent development programs, and positioning itself as a reference in the industry. While there is still work to be done—namely, we need more women in management positions—we are on a trajectory of progress. I am proud to consider myself an example of that, and I am confident that many more women will follow this path.
You recently joined Latecoere’s mentorship program, receiving guidance from a member of the Executive Committee. What do you expect from this experience?
N. S.: Being mentored by a member of the Executive Committee is a unique and invaluable opportunity. This kind of insight—coming from someone with a global perspective and extensive experience—is something you can’t get in a classroom. No matter how good a school is, it can’t provide the same level of direct exposure and personalized guidance. I know this experience will not only shape my career but also define the next steps in my professional development.
Would you consider mentoring other women in the future?
N. S.: Absolutely! I was fortunate to grow within Latecoere, starting as a trainee and working my way through different roles, eventually leading projects, and now taking on this international assignment. Throughout this journey, I’ve faced challenges that I overcame through hard work and perseverance. I see mentorship as a powerful tool to help other women navigate similar paths and achieve their goals.
What is the most critical area of personal development for empowering women in the workplace?
N. S.: Personal development is about more than just ambition or meritocracy. Confidence plays a huge role, and that confidence often comes from the right support system—having mentors, role models, and a workplace culture that encourages growth. At the same time, we must acknowledge the obstacles women continue to face and equip ourselves with the resilience to overcome them. The best way to build empowerment is by sharing experiences, supporting one another, and ensuring that companies genuinely commit to fostering a positive work environment. That is something I truly see within Latecoere, and I believe this is how we will continue making progress.
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