This International Women’s Day, meet two Hydrolite scientists turning chemistry into clean energy solutions.
At the intersection of science, technology, and energy, two women at Hydrolite are leading the charge in AEM technology innovation. Ortal and Anna, experts in electrochemistry, share their journeys – how they built their careers, the challenges they’ve navigated, and their vision for the future of clean energy.
On this International Women’s Day, their experiences highlight how expertise and perseverance drive real progress – without the need for grand statements.
A Drive for Change
Anna joined Hydrolite in 2016 and has grown alongside the company. As a Ph.D. candidate in chemistry, she leads research initiatives and laboratory operations in fuel cells and electrolysis. Reflecting on her recent return from maternity leave, she notes, “Balancing research and parenting is demanding, but it’s a different kind of challenge from work. Hydrolite’s collaborative culture made the transition easier, with colleagues stepping in to ensure continuity.”
Ortal, head of the fuel cell division, specializes in materials engineering and electrochemistry, focusing on scaling technologies from concept to real-world application. “I started at Hydrolite working on a fuel cell system for the Israeli Air Force” she recalls. “We built it from the ground up, and that hands-on experience was invaluable.”
For Anna, the decision to enter the field was rooted in a desire to bridge the gap between theory and impact. “I realized that small-scale innovations in nanotechnology could drive meaningful change, and I wanted to be part of that transformation.” Ortal, whose passion for environmental sustainability shaped her career, felt the same pull. “I’ve always wanted my work to mean something. Developing engineering solutions for green energy felt like the most effective way to make a difference.”
No Special Treatment, Just Expertise
Both Anna and Ortal built their careers in traditionally male-dominated fields, yet neither attributes their journey to gender-based obstacles. “During my degrees in biology and later in nanotechnology, the gender balance shifted significantly,” says Anna. “But the real challenge wasn’t being a woman – it was mastering complex subjects.”
Ortal, who transitioned from software development to energy related R&D, shares a similar perspective. “In my previous jobs, I was often the only woman in the room, but I never saw that as a limitation. In any field, you have to prove yourself based on ability.”
At Hydrolite, both women credit CEO Erwin for cultivating a workplace where expertise takes precedence over identity. “There’s no special treatment,” Anna explains. “But there’s a culture of openness that gives everyone, including women, the space to excel.”
More Than a Career
Beyond their research, both women are committed to shaping the future of the industry. Ortal participates in “At Meshana,” an initiative to increase female representation in technical roles. “It’s not about quotas – it’s about making sure talented women see these opportunities and take them.”
For those considering a career in energy technology, their advice is simple: “Don’t hesitate,” says Anna. “If this field excites you, go for it. Israel has strong support systems for women in STEM, from mentorship programs to scholarships.”
Ortal adds: “Let curiosity lead you. Ignore the noise, and don’t be afraid to explore the unknown. The best opportunities come when you least expect them.”
