| Larissa Bilovits
| 11.03.2026
Representatives from across the energy sector gathered Monday for a “Power Women Networking Event” hosted by Oesterreichs Energie and Wiener Netze, focusing on strategies to increase female visibility and leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The energy industry continues to lag in female representation, particularly in executive roles. However, a growing recognition of the importance of networking, visibility, and mutual support is driving efforts to foster lasting change. On March 9th, numerous industry professionals convened at the Smart Campus of Wiener Netze in Vienna, at the invitation of Oesterreichs Energie, for the “Power Women Networking Event.” The event centered on personal career journeys, current trends in the energy sector, and how women can play a more active role in shaping the industry’s future.
Energy Sector Remains a Male-Dominated Field
Barbara Schmidt, General Secretary of Oesterreichs Energie, opened the event, highlighting the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions. She noted that currently, no female CEOs lead Austrian publicly traded companies, and women comprise only around 25% of the overall energy workforce, with that figure dropping to approximately 10% in leadership roles. “Women’s networks are an important tool to make women more visible, share experiences and encourage them to take on leadership roles and functions in committees and interest groups,” Schmidt stated.
From Apprentice to Corporate Leadership
Ilse Hirt, Managing Director of Wiener Netze, shared insights into her career path, emphasizing that her journey began with an apprenticeship and progressed through various roles within the company – from operational tasks to strategic operate. She underscored that leadership positions aren’t solely accessible through academic routes, but also through practical experience and continuous professional development.
Hirt explained that in her role as Managing Director, she prioritizes teamwork, transparent communication, and an open information culture. Decisions are made collaboratively, information is shared openly within the team, and responsibility is distributed effectively to drive company growth. She also encouraged women to confidently assert their positions and proactively seize opportunities in male-dominated industries, emphasizing that visibility and demonstrating one’s contributions are crucial for driving long-term change.
Communication Expert Offers Tips for Conscious Presentation
Daniela Soykan-Tober, a moderator and communication expert, delivered a keynote address based on her experiences as a woman in the historically male-dominated media industry. She recounted her entry into the sports department of ORF in 2011, where she was one of the few women in a team of around 80 employees. She described how ingrained gender roles and the “Male Gaze” significantly influenced her professional life – from comments about her appearance and clothing to structural inequalities like limited visibility for women’s sports and unequal career opportunities. She also acknowledged the pioneering women in Austrian sports journalism who paved the way for future generations.
Soykan-Tober then translated these experiences into practical advice for increasing visibility and self-assurance in male-dominated environments. She stressed the importance of body language, clear communication, and confident presentation – including consciously taking up space, maintaining a stable posture, and delivering a clear “headline” in conversations. She also openly addressed the imposter syndrome that often prevents women from voicing their ideas, concluding that actively shaping one’s impact – from voice and demeanor to message structure – can improve one’s ability to be heard and drive lasting change, even within traditional structures.
Networking to Conclude the Event
Following the formal program, attendees had the opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and share their own experiences, bringing the event to a close.
