Kia México Women Workforce Reaches 30%, Above Industry

Kia México reported that women now represent about 30% of its workforce, exceeding the global automotive industry average of roughly 24%, according to company information outlining recent developments in its diversity and talent initiatives. The company, which employs more than 2,500 people in Mexico, said the increase reflects a long-term effort to expand opportunities for women across operational, technical and leadership roles.

The figure marks a notable increase from previous years, when women accounted for around 10% of the workforce. The growth highlights a gradual transformation within the company’s operations in Mexico and reflects broader shifts across an industry historically dominated by men.

Kia México noted that the current proportion means approximately one in three employees in its operations is a woman. Company representatives said the progress has been supported by initiatives aimed at strengthening inclusion and supporting the professional development of female employees.

These efforts have focused on increasing women’s participation in production areas as well as administrative, technical and managerial roles, helping broaden representation across different levels of the organization.

According to Marianela Calderón, director of Employee Experience at Kia México, expanding opportunities for women is part of a broader effort to strengthen workplace culture and promote more equitable work environments.

“Creating opportunities for women in the automotive industry motivates us to build a more equitable and inclusive workplace,” Calderón said. “We want everyone who works with Kia México, regardless of gender, to have the tools to grow professionally and achieve their personal and career goals.”

Alongside hiring and talent development strategies, the company has also introduced programs designed to support employees at different stages of their professional and personal lives.

One of these initiatives is the Mom To Be program, which provides support for employees during pregnancy. The program includes guidance throughout pregnancy, nutritional counseling and additional benefits intended to help participants manage daily responsibilities during this period.

Kia México said the initiative aims to support employees during maternity while allowing them to maintain continuity in their professional development.

The company has also implemented programs designed to encourage more women to pursue careers in the automotive sector.

Through the Girls At Kia program, the company invites students from technical schools and universities to learn about opportunities within the automotive industry. Participants visit Kia México facilities and receive mentorship from female engineers, who share their professional experiences and explain the roles they perform in different areas of the organization.

According to the company, the program aims to provide students with direct exposure to the workplace while encouraging them to consider careers in engineering, manufacturing and other technical fields traditionally associated with the sector.