Building bridges between cultures: Raquel Serrano Gonzalez’s mission for gender equality in Latin America

Driven by a passion for safety and equality, Raquel Serrano Gonzalez has dedicated over 15 years to advocating for the well-being of workers across Spain, Mexico, and Latin America. Even before joining RES in March 2024 as a People & Culture and HSQE Manager, Raquel exemplified the Power for Good mindset in her daily work. Through Human Resources and Safety roles, her people-first mindset meant that the job wasn’t done until everyone returned home to the people who mattered most.

With a background in industrial engineering and occupational health and safety, she spent her early career as a safety consultant, identifying and preventing risks on combined cycle projects in Peru. She founded a consulting firm that guided numerous organizations in implementing effective safety regulations and authored a book on occupational health and safety strategies.

One of her first projects at RES was helping coordinate the Global Safety Day event in Mexico. She was immediately struck by the cultural differences surrounding safety at RES. After years of prioritizing safety among construction workers—encouraging them to speak up and take care of themselves—she finally had a company supporting her. Raquel was thrilled to see her colleagues engage in Global Safety Day. “They appreciated RES’ efforts to hold a global event where everyone’s thoughts were important, regardless of job position.”

In Latin America, individuals often use the tools and equipment provided to them without questioning authority. Raquel mentioned that it was especially challenging at previous companies to instill the value of workers’ safety because their bosses did not endorse the same message. Her employees often lacked the confidence to speak up if something felt off, particularly regarding women. “Latin American women are strong and respected at home,” Raquel shared. “They educate all the kids and run the household, but it is not easy for them to have leadership roles in companies.”

She noted a clear hierarchy within her culture that everyone defers to, limiting themselves professionally. Upon learning about the affinity networks at RES, Raquel joined the Gender Affinity Network to challenge the status quo. As the Latin American Vice Chair of the network, she is elevating her role as a Power for Good by encouraging the women around her to bring the same level of respect and responsibility into the workplace that they experience at home. “My goal is to break down gender barriers and improve the culture of equality, particularly in Latin society.”

As a manager, Raquel views herself as a facilitator in supporting women at RES and hopes to inspire everyone, particularly minorities, to pursue leadership roles.

“If you know how to do the work, it IS your place. It’s not about your gender or any physical characteristic that makes a leader.”

As she continues her journey at RES, Raquel is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where every voice is heard and valued. Only in a culture where individuals feel empowered and encouraged to speak up can we ensure each other’s safety.