Women in engineering: pioneers
of innovation at LOVATO Electric
In the early decades of the twentieth century, a transformative story unfolded in a small electromechanical workshop in Bergamo, Italy. It was Maria Faccio, a trailblazer ahead of her time, who laid the foundation for what we now know as LOVATO Electric. Her entrepreneurial spirit and vision in 1922 established Officina Elettromeccanica Lovato & C., a company that would become a cornerstone of innovation in the electromechanical industry. As we reflect on Maria’s legacy, we celebrate her contributions and recognise the importance of promoting women in engineering – a field that thrives on diversity, creativity, and inclusivity.
Breaking barriers in the twentieth century
In 1922, engineering was largely considered a male-dominated domain. Maria Faccio’s decision to establish her own electromechanical workshop was nothing short of groundbreaking. She was not only a pioneer in entrepreneurship but also a role model for countless women aspiring to enter technical fields. Maria’s success story serves as a reminder that determination, expertise, and vision know no gender.
Maria’s contributions didn’t stop at founding LOVATO Electric. Under her leadership, the company began producing air and oil-bath switches, laying the groundwork for a future filled with innovation and growth. Her nephew, Massimiliano Cacciavillani, carried forward her legacy, ushering the company into new eras of technological advancement.
A legacy of innovation
From the production of contactors in 1948 to the establishment of the Gorle (Bergamo, Italy) headquarters in 1963, LOVATO Electric has continuously evolved, adapting to technological advancements and market demands. The company’s history is a testament to its commitment to innovation and quality. Under the leadership of the Cacciavillani family, LOVATO Electric expanded globally, integrating electromechanical production with cutting-edge electronic product lines.
Today, the company operates in over 100 countries, with 14 foreign branches and a comprehensive range of products, including motor protection switches, contactors, energy meters, and digital multimeters. The integration of Wi-Fi and NFC technology in 2015-2017 highlights LOVATO Electric’s dedication to staying ahead of industry trends.
The importance of women in engineering
Maria Faccio’s story underscores the critical role women play in shaping the engineering world. Despite significant progress, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields. LOVATO Electric’s history serves as an inspiration for organisations to create opportunities for women, fostering an environment where their contributions are valued and celebrated.
Promoting gender diversity in engineering is not just about equality; it’s about innovation. Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, which lead to more creative problem-solving and better decision-making. At LOVATO Electric, we believe in building a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can contribute to shaping the technologies that power our world.
Maria Faccio’s story underscores the critical role women play in shaping the engineering world. Despite significant progress, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields. LOVATO Electric’s history serves as an inspiration for organisations to create opportunities for women, fostering an environment where their contributions are valued and celebrated.
Promoting gender diversity in engineering is not just about equality; it’s about innovation. Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, which lead to more creative problem-solving and better decision-making. At LOVATO Electric, we believe in building a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can contribute to shaping the technologies that power our world.
Continuing Maria’s vision
As LOVATO Electric moves forward, we remain committed to Maria Faccio’s vision of excellence and innovation. Through research and development, state-of-the-art production facilities, and a global presence, we honour her legacy by driving progress in the industrial and energy efficiency sectors.
We also recognise our responsibility to inspire the next generation of women engineers. By sharing stories like Maria’s, supporting STEM education, and fostering inclusive workplaces, we aim to create a world where women can thrive in engineering and beyond.
Join us in celebrating women in engineering
LOVATO Electric’s journey began with the determination and ingenuity of a woman who dared to dream. As we continue to grow, we celebrate the contributions of women in engineering and reaffirm our commitment to diversity and innovation. Together, we can build a future that honours the past while embracing the limitless possibilities of tomorrow.
