insights
Women @KraussMaffei: Ximena Pachon
| Ana Laura Vera
We present strong women at KraussMaffei
Since recently, Ximena Pachon has been looking after customers in Central and South America (with the exception of Brazil) and additionally continues to be responsible as logistics manager for spare parts in the region. Ximena has been working at KraussMaffei for eleven years, initially in the spare parts department, then also in administration, NM sales and marketing. Before joining S4S, she worked in customer support. Her boss especially appreciates her ability to work in a team and her tireless efforts to lead the company to success in every challenge.
AHEAD
In your opinion, what are the advantages for women working in the still male-dominated engineering sector?
Ximena Pachon
I believe that there are always advantages in unexpected situations such as being able to actively participate in this sector which is so dominated by men. It is expected that we have fewer skills and are less capable, and it is a surprise when we demonstrate that we are just as capable and can excel at least as well than men in the same positions.
AHEAD
In your opinion, are there also disadvantages? What are they?
Ximena Pachon
The downside is that from the outset people may distrust our work. When that happens, we must make double the effort in order to generate that trust.
AHEAD
What advice do you have for women who also want to pursue a career in the engineering sector?
Ximena Pachon
The advice I would give you is not to focus on which sector you are going to work in, or if it is dominated by men or women. It's just about doing what you are passionate about, regardless of the dominant gender. Doing what you love is what makes the difference.
AHEAD
Who has been the woman who has inspired you the most and why?
Ximena Pachon
Definitely my mom. At the beginning she gave up happiness in her personal life to protect the stability of her daughters. She has been an independent, disciplined, and rebellious woman. She is the strongest woman I know, both mentally and physically, and always follows her passions, especially basketball. Now, although she still works as a teacher, she also travels around the world, representing Colombia in this sport.
AHEAD
How do you balance your work life with your personal passions?
Ximena Pachon
Personally, I balance my time between working, spending quality time with my daughter, and playing volleyball. I wake up very early and work late when I can. When I'm not on business trips, I always try to pick my daughter up from school.
AHEAD
What do you think is the biggest challenge of being a woman these days?
Ximena Pachon
Sadly, it’s escaping the stereotypical role of just being mothers and housewives. Even today, we can be judged for spending more time at work than at home. Also, like men, we have the right to have hobbies and dedicate time to them and not be judged for it.
AHEAD
What does International Women's Day mean to you?
Ximena Pachon
It means remembering how much we have fought to achieve equal treatment and the same rights as men. It also reminds us that we must continue working on this change of roles in society that allows us to empower ourselves to be able to do what we want. It also creates the awareness that we need to eliminate violence and limitations that try to prevent us from developing our full potential.
ximena.pachon@kraussmaffei.com
