Pathways to green careers: using MICMAC analysis to address gender barriers in STEM-related TVET education in Colombia

Abstract Women’s participation in Green-STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) careers remains low. This study examined how to remove gender barriers in Environmental-STEM technical and vocational training programs, aiming to expand opportunities for women in the green economy. SENA, Colombia’s public TVET institution, served as the case study. Gender Transformative and Participatory Action Research approaches, along with the MICMAC method, were used to identify, analyze, and address key barriers. Surveys, interviews and focus groups provided qualitative and quantitative data. The MICMAC analysis revealed the relationships among barriers and their interdependencies, identifying nine core barriers. To address these, women-led smart strategies were implemented through learning cycles, supported by small- and full-scale green pilots focused on sustainable resource utilization, production patterns, and circular economy knowledge transfer. As a result, female apprentices strengthened their sustainability-focused skills and confidence, while SENA enhanced its capacity to foster more inclusive Green-STEM vocational pathways. This study expands existing knowledge by deepening the understanding of gender barriers in vocational STEM careers related to sustainability and environmental management in Latin America, where research remains Limited. It offers actionable recommendations on leveraging education to drive progress toward SDGs 4, 5, 12, and 13.