For Dr. Natalia Scherbakoff, bringing more women into STEM not only achieves greater representation. It strengthens science itself.
“Diversity is a performance driver,” said Natalia, chief technology officer at Orion S.A. “Diverse teams approach problems from multiple angles, leading to creative solutions.”
She added that inclusive teams are often more resilient, flexible and effective — especially during challenging times.
Natalia shared her reflections as Orion celebrated the U.N.’s International Day for Girls & Women in Science on Feb. 11. She described how her career journey has been shaped by perseverance and global experiences. She also discussed the progress being made and the opportunities still ahead.
Her educational background includes a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in macromolecular science from Case Western Reserve University in the U.S. and a chemical engineering degree from Mauá Engineering University in Brazil. Natalia also earned an MBA from the Getulio Vargas Foundation in Brazil. She is fluent in English, French, Portuguese, Italian and Russian.
When Natalia began her career, women were still significantly underrepresented across STEM fields. But over the years, she witnessed a big shift, with more women studying science, entering the workforce and stepping into technical and leadership roles.
“What is most remarkable to me is the visibility of female role models,” Natalia said. “In technical as well leadership positions.”
A Career Built on Curiosity
Natalia’s path into science has always been driven by a desire to keep challenging herself.
“Ever since I could remember, I always wanted to be learning,” she said. “If I was in a position where I wasn’t learning or able to challenge myself, I knew it was time for a change.”
That mindset helped guide her through an international career spanning research, innovation and technology leadership across major global organizations.
Natalia joined Orion in 2024 from the chemical company Trinseo, where she served as vice president of Technology & Innovation, while supporting major growth initiatives and sustainability efforts.
Creating Space for Women to Thrive
Natalia believes companies play a critical role in building environments where women can succeed.
Executives must champion inclusion, she said, and organizations can make a difference through mentorship, sponsorship, respectful team cultures, university partnerships, internships and gender-neutral job descriptions.
She also credits the support she received early in her career.
“Having the right mentor can have a positive impact on the direction you decide to take,” she said.
Advice for the Next Generation
Natalia’s advice for girls and young women interested in the chemical industry is simple: Aim high and believe in yourself.
“Take the power of your career and set bold targets,” she said. “Trust your capabilities and don’t limit your ambitions.”
She encourages young professionals to lean into what they do well, take risks and stay true to who they are. “Do not try and mimic others,” she said. “Be your authentic self. You are there to bring you to the table.”
And when self-doubt creeps in, Natalia reminds people that mistakes are part of the process. “It really is okay to mess up. It’s okay to make mistakes,” she said. “Get the lessons out of them. That is how you progress.”
A Career as a Marathon
Building a career in science takes time and persistence, Natalia said.
“A career is a marathon, not a sprint,” Natalia said. “So persevere.”
Advancing innovation means bringing together diverse perspectives, experiences and ideas. Natalia’s career and leadership reinforce the importance of building a workplace where women in STEM can thrive, grow and lead.
On this day of recognition, Orion celebrates the contributions of women across the company and the next generation of scientists and engineers that will shape a more sustainable and innovative future.
