Hiring took place through the affirmative program Elas na Operação and marks an important step in the company’s diversity and inclusion agenda

Samarco has advanced its diversity and inclusion agenda with the hiring of 20 new female mine equipment operators, who began their development journey in February at the Germano Complex, in Mariana, through the affirmative-action program Elas na Operação. They join 27 other women who joined the Maintenance area in January, also at Germano.

In total, 47 women joined Samarco in roles historically held by men. This reinforces the company’s commitment to expanding female representation, helping build a more diverse, collaborative, and innovative environment.

In addition to the Germano unit in Minas Gerais, at the Ubu unit in Anchieta (ES), the Elas na Operação program achieved important milestones in 2025, such as welcoming 11 new female operators at the Port of Ubu in July and onboarding another 11 female mechanics into the Maintenance team, also in Ubu, in early September.

Since the rollout of Samarco’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Program, women’s representation at the company has increased from 16.5% in 2022 to 29.5% in 2025. In leadership roles, the share more than doubled: from 10.4% in 2022 to 28.8% last year.

At both the kickoff event in January and last week’s event, the 47 women were welcomed by Maintenance and Mine leaders, representatives from the People and Culture General Management team, and the general manager of Operations at the Germano Complex, Rodrigo Pasqualli.

The general manager of People and Culture, Vera Lucia, highlights that the arrival of the new employees in mine operations and maintenance represents an important step in expanding diversity in areas traditionally dominated by men. “By bringing these professionals on board, we reaffirm our purpose of offering equitable development opportunities. We recognize that women’s presence in mining is not new, but each new group helps strengthen a more diverse and sustainable culture. The engagement of these professionals, combined with the support of colleagues and leaders, is essential to strengthen inclusive practices and open pathways for future generations,” Vera emphasized.

The program’s kickoff event last week also showcased stories of resilience and determination, such as that of mine operator Gilmara de Paula. At 52, a resident of the Antônio Pereira district in Ouro Preto for 26 years, she had tried to join the company before without success. “Last year, they contacted me so I could be part of Elas na Operação. I didn’t think I would make it, especially because of my age. But I moved

through the process, did the interview, the tests, and I made it,” Gilmara said, underscoring the environment she found at the company. “A few days ago, something personal happened to me, and everyone there welcomed me, even people who didn’t know me. So much solidarity and care. That’s why opportunities matter, especially affirmative-action openings for women: inclusion, being embraced. That’s the Samarco I found.”

For Maintenance manager Ivi Segrini, the arrival of the new professionals directly strengthens day-to-day operations. “Our operation depends on the dedication of every team member. The new professionals are joining to boost efficiency, safety, and quality. We trust each person’s potential and reinforce the importance of collaboration and teamwork,” she said.

With the start of the Development journey for the new hires at the Germano Complex, Samarco reaffirms its commitment to promoting opportunities, developing talent, and building a more diverse and inclusive workplace, essential pillars for the future of mining.

Credit: Samarco

Credit: Samarco