Editorial article addressing gender inclusion in the FTTH Sector

The editorial “Women in Fiber: Breaking the Glass Ceiling” by Barbara Tonarelli and Esra Buke examines the lack of gender diversity in Europe’s Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) industry. It highlights key challenges such as low female participation in STEM, mid-career attrition, and limited representation in leadership roles. The authors stress that these gaps hinder innovation and industry growth, while surveys show differing perceptions of career equality between men and women. They point to initiatives like the “Women in Fibre” campaign and diversity awards as positive steps but argue that deeper reforms are needed. Transparent reporting, leadership training, flexible policies, and broader DE&I strategies are seen as essential to create inclusive workplaces. Ultimately, the article makes the case that fostering diversity is vital not just for fairness but also for strengthening competitiveness and ensuring a sustainable future for the FTTH sector in Europe.