Why are STEM disciplines fundamental to a company’s strategy?
Today, in almost all companies, STEM disciplines enable innovation, rapid adaptation to change, and continued relevance in an environment that is constantly evolving.
Specifically, in a company like Telefónica, which connects millions of people, technology is not just a support function; it is what makes everything work and evolve.
It is true that we talk a lot about 5G networks, network slicing, data, and artificial intelligence… but we also need to talk about how all of this translates into real user experiences. From being able to make an uninterrupted video call to enjoying high-quality streaming content, there is a tremendous amount of STEM knowledge behind all of this.
What role do STEM profiles play in the company’s digital transformation and in the creation of new services for customers?
Employees with STEM profiles are key in any technology-driven company because they are the ones who make digital transformation move from being an idea to becoming a reality. They design, build, and optimize the solutions we use in our daily lives.
For example, thanks to these profiles, more efficient networks are deployed, existing resources and processes are optimized, and new services are created both for large enterprises and for the general public.
Which STEM competencies are most critical to addressing the current and future challenges of the telecommunications sector?
Beyond specific technical knowledge—which is obviously always important and forms the foundation—there are three competencies that, in my opinion, truly make the difference.
The first is the ability to learn continuously. Technology evolves so quickly that what you know today may become obsolete tomorrow, so constant upskilling is essential.
The second is adaptability. We operate in an environment where new technologies are constantly emerging, so being flexible and having an open mindset is crucial.
The third, which is sometimes underestimated, is communication skills. Being able to explain technical concepts in a simple way and work in teams with different types of profiles that may not be as technical is increasingly important.
How does Telefónica promote the attraction, development, and retention of STEM talent?
Telefónica fosters STEM talent through different approaches, combining internal development with initiatives aimed at sparking interest from an early age.
On the one hand, there is a strong focus within the company on continuous learning, ongoing training, and participation in innovative projects.
On the other hand, there are high-impact initiatives such as Girls Love Tech, a community made up of colleagues who share our experiences with girls, teenagers, and university students to bring the technology world closer to them. Through talks, workshops, and mentoring, we try to show them what our day-to-day work looks like and, above all, help them imagine themselves in these kinds of roles.
Ultimately, it is about creating an environment where talent not only arrives but also wants to stay and grow.
What is the importance of fostering STEM vocations for sustainable growth?
Without a doubt, when teams bring together different perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking, the solutions they create are much more complete and creative.
In the case of STEM vocations, there is still a significant gap, especially when it comes to women. Encouraging more women and young people to take an interest in these disciplines is not only important from a social perspective, but also from a strategic one. If we want to build technology that represents and serves society as a whole, that diversity must also be present among those who design it.
How will STEM influence the ability to lead innovation?
Investing in STEM profiles will be decisive. Technologies such as 5G, 6G, and artificial intelligence will continue to transform the way we live and work, and staying at the forefront of these areas will make the difference.
Having strong STEM talent will enable Telefónica not only to adapt to these changes but also to anticipate and lead them. This is key to remaining a relevant company in the future.
In the end, it all comes down to the idea that technology will continue to evolve, and the real differentiator will be the talent capable of understanding it, applying it, and turning it into value for people.
