Belén Hernández Gascón
A short interview with
Belén Hernández Gascón
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I hold a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from the University of Zaragoza, within the Computational Mechanics program, and a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. With more than fifteen years of experience in international and multidisciplinary environments, I have been working since 2013 at the Instituto Tecnológico de Aragón (ITA), specializing in advanced numerical simulation and project management.
My expertise includes finite element analysis, development of constitutive models for nonlinear solid mechanics and large deformations, modeling of complex materials such as composites, rubbers, and soft biological tissues, simulation of forming processes, and experimental mechanical characterization. I currently coordinate the Manufacturing Processes and Clean Energy technology area, contributing to a wide variety of R&D projects and collaborating with both industrial and academic partners.
My professional activity focuses on sustainable, energy-efficient, and advanced materials and components, supporting innovation and the development of practical engineering solutions with high technical and industrial impact.
Can you tell us about your professional journey and how you got started in this field?
When I think back to my teenage years, I was a girl who really liked math, solving problems, and challenges. I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but I wanted to keep my options open. I studied Industrial Engineering, and even though I specialized in construction, the economic crisis at that time pushed me to continue studying. I decided to do a PhD to learn more. After finishing it, I wanted to apply engineering in real business projects. That’s when I started my career at the Instituto Tecnológico de Aragón, where I could put my skills into practice and grow professionally. Fortunately, in my workplace, there are many women with high responsibilities, which makes it a great place to grow.
Have you ever doubted your abilities and why?
During my engineering studies, I learned a lot because the program was very wide, but we didn’t go deep into most subjects. That sometimes made me doubt my abilities. But the experience also taught me to face problems beyond theory and gave me courage to take challenges. I also doubted myself after finishing my PhD, when I wanted to start in the real business world, because applied research had made me focus too much on very specific problems. Over time, I realized these doubts are normal and part of learning and growing.
Did you ever have the impression gender was an important factor on a raise, promotion, or key assignment?
Sometimes I have noticed that gender can play a role in raises, promotions, or important tasks, especially looking at other companies or friends. However, in my current workplace, I feel grateful to be in a good environment where I can develop myself.
During your career, have you ever been mentored?
Yes, I have had several mentors. For my final university project, I had both an official tutor and a classmate who had experience in the private sector, and they helped me a lot. During my PhD, I had two thesis supervisors, both women, who supported me a lot. When I joined the Instituto Tecnológico de Aragón, I didn’t have a formal mentor, but a male colleague gave me great guidance. Over time, there has been a woman who, even if not an official mentor, has been a constant reference and I keep learning from her.
If you could give some advice to your younger self or other girls, what would that be?
I would tell my younger self, or other girls, to trust themselves and their abilities. Believe that you can handle challenges, and don’t be afraid of making mistakes, because they help you grow. I would also say: listen to your inner voice, because you are the one in control of your mind. Trust yourself every day.
