Advancing Industrial Innovation and Female Representation in Technology
Gizil is proud to announce that Founder and CEO Esma Gulten has been selected as the North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) winner of Germany's Female Founder Award, advancing to the national semi-final stage among some of the country's most promising entrepreneurs.
The recognition highlights Gizil's mission to transform how industrial organizations understand, manage and modernize existing infrastructure through Brownfield Infrastructure Intelligence and Virtual Plant®.
For Esma Gulten, the award represents more than entrepreneurial success. It reflects the growing importance of diverse leadership in industries that have traditionally seen limited female representation, particularly across engineering, industrial technology and critical infrastructure sectors.
Building the Future of Industrial Infrastructure
Industrial sectors worldwide are facing unprecedented transformation driven by energy transition, workforce transition and the modernization of aging infrastructure.
At Gizil, we believe these challenges require practical, engineering-driven solutions that bridge the gap between physical infrastructure and digital transformation.
The recognition acknowledges not only the company's innovation journey, but also its commitment to helping industrial organizations build safer, smarter and more resilient infrastructure for future generations.
Representation Matters
Engineering, industrial operations and infrastructure remain fields where female founders and leaders are still significantly underrepresented.
As a female founder operating at the intersection of engineering, industrial technology and software, Esma Gulten views this recognition as both an honor and a responsibility.
The visibility created through initiatives such as the Female Founder Award helps inspire future entrepreneurs, engineers and technology leaders while demonstrating that innovation can emerge from diverse perspectives and experiences.
Creating more opportunities for women in STEM, entrepreneurship and industrial leadership remains an important part of building a stronger and more innovative industrial ecosystem.
Looking Forward
As Gizil continues its international growth journey, this recognition reinforces the company's commitment to innovation, industrial impact and inclusive leadership.
The challenges facing industry are global. The solutions should be as diverse as the people creating them.
Award Highlights
NRW State Winner
Selected as the leading female founder in North Rhine-Westphalia.
National Semi-Finalist
Advanced to the national stage of Germany's Female Founder Award.
Industrial Technology Innovation
Recognized for pioneering approaches to infrastructure intelligence and industrial digitalization.
Women in Industry & STEM
Promoting greater representation and visibility in engineering, technology and industrial leadership.
A Personal Reflection
"I hope this recognition encourages more women to pursue careers in engineering, technology and entrepreneurship. Industry is transforming rapidly, and diverse perspectives will be essential in shaping the future of industrial innovation."
— Esma Gulten, Co-Founder & CEO, Gizil
