The Female Vision: Women in Feed... and this week we focus on BioMar

Next up in our series is Maja Erichsen, industrial PhD candidate and junior scientist in BioMar.

Can you share your journey into the feed industry? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field, and what challenges did you face along the way? ​

When I was younger, I didn't have a specific goal or dream for my future career. Influenced by the advice of many adults, I thought I should choose a “smart” path—perhaps becoming a dentist, doctor, engineer, or something along those lines. However, it wasn’t until high school that I discovered my genuine interest in natural science subjects, which ignited my curiosity and passion for the field. I became particularly fascinated by how living organisms function and the vital role of nutrition in health and development.

With this growing interest, coupled with my love for animals, I entered university with the intention of becoming a veterinarian. However, while writing my bachelor’s thesis on the digestive systems and feeding habits of various fish species, I recognized the immense potential and impact of aquaculture. This realization led me to pursue a career in that field. I subsequently applied for a master’s degree in biosciences, specializing in aquaculture, and was fortunate to work on a project utilizing BioMar data for my thesis.

The courses I selected during my master’s program also allowed me to connect with Simon Wadsworth, the R&D director at BioMar, who offered me a trainee position. This opportunity eventually paved the way for me to pursue a PhD through the company. I am truly delighted with my current situation and excited to continue this journey.

My inspiration to pursue a career in the feed industry has been enriched by the knowledge I’ve gained along the way. As I explored the various opportunities within aquaculture, my motivation to work in this field deepened. Nutrition is a cornerstone of health and development for all living beings, and being able to contribute to the formulation of feeds that provide essential nutrients is incredibly rewarding. Feed not only supports the health and growth of fish but also impacts us as consumers who rely on fish for nutrition. I feel fortunate to contribute to food security and sustainability through my work in aquafeed.

In your experience, how has being a woman influenced your career in the feed industry? Have you encountered any gender-specific challenges or opportunities? ​

For me, the most challenging part was learning the full range of possibilities that exist in the feed industry. Often, we look to older individuals that we hold close for guidance and inspiration when planning our careers. However, the people closest to us may not always hold positions that we can envision ourselves in. Growing up, I didn’t have female role models in positions within the feed industry, which made it difficult to see such opportunities. This lack of representation can be a barrier, but it also highlights the importance of visibility and mentorship for women aspiring to enter and advance professionally. 

I believe it is crucial for industry professionals, not only women, to engage with students early on to enhance career navigation and provide inspiration. When industry leaders and professionals actively participate in educational settings, they can offer valuable insights into the diverse career paths available. By sharing their experiences, challenges, and successes, professionals can demystify the industry and make it more accessible. This not only helps students make informed career choices but also inspires them to pursue roles they might not have considered otherwise. Additionally, seeing successful individuals from the industry can serve as powerful role models, particularly for underrepresented groups, and encourage more women to take the step. 

How important have mentorship and networking been in your career? Can you share any specific experiences where support from other women or mentors made a difference? ​

Mentorship and networking have been crucial to my career. It was through networking during my master’s degree that I became aware of BioMar and the opportunities that existed there. Without that event, my career would probably have taken a different path.  

Once I entered the industry, the support and mentorship from colleagues became invaluable. Two women who have played a significant role in my journey are Kyla Zatti and Monica Juarez Ceballos. As senior scientists and leaders of their respective teams in the R&D group, they have been a constant source of inspiration, encouraging me to develop my skills. From the very beginning, they have supported and guided me, providing me with confidence and knowledge to grow and tackle challenges in the field.

What changes have you observed in the feed industry regarding gender diversity and inclusion over the years? What more needs to be done to improve representation and equity? ​

Although I have only been part of the feed industry for three years, I have observed significant improvements in terms of diversity and inclusion. There is a noticeable shift towards achieving a better balance of both genders and nationalities, compared to what has been the case in the past. For instance, at my workplace, 17 different nationalities are represented, and there is an equal balance between women and men. This diversity enriches our work environment and fosters a culture of different opinions, ideas, and innovation. Moreover, my closest manager is a woman, which demonstrates that leadership positions are attainable. 

In the conferences I have attended, I have noticed a diversity among the presenters on stage. I have experienced an environment where individuals are not only engaged in sharing their research but also actively encouraging one another. 

To improve representation and equality even further, I think that initiatives aimed at making women in leading position more visible and supporting their career advancement are important factors for encouraging more women to pursue and thrive in leadership roles. 

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the feed industry? Are there specific skills or experiences you believe are essential? ​

My first advice for young women aspiring to enter the feed industry is to get out there and engage with the community. Talk to people, attend conferences, receive inspiration, and expand your network. You need to be curious to learn and develop and remember that we all learn as we go. Nobody is an expert from the beginning when they enter a new role. 

Dedication is key, and it’s crucial not to be discouraged by small setbacks. If you broaden your perspective, you’ll find that there are countless opportunities available.

I think that almost any kind of skill is valuable for the feed industry. It is a dynamic sector that encompasses everything from hands-on work in the field—such as interacting with the fish we feed—to the technological aspects of feed production, research, sourcing, logistics, marketing, and sustainability. When I entered the industry, I was amazed by the wide range of skills present, the opportunities that are there, and the various pathways one can take to get in.

What is your vision for the role of women in the feed industry over the next decade? How can we work together to foster an environment that supports women’s growth and leadership? ​

I believe we are witnessing a growing awareness of gender balance across all roles in the industry, and my vision for the future is to see more women stepping into leadership positions.

To sustain this positive trend, it’s crucial to maintain our focus on this topic and empower women to pursue leadership roles. We need to highlight female role models and provide support for women to grow and develop into these positions. Initiatives and platforms that foster mentorship and networking are valuable in this process.