A woman, her path and her place at Erzberg: The story of Julia Vargek-Ipsa

She has never regretted her decision for a second. Julia Vargek-Ipsa describes her job as a foreman at Erzberg as the best in the world. As production manager, she organises processes, is responsible for shift scheduling and also for employee safety. She also calls the shots at events such as the Erzbergrodeo and Adventure Days. VA Erzberg GmbH operates the largest open-cast iron ore mine in Central Europe. The company is a major producer of raw materials and mines around three million tonnes of ore annually. Erzberg is also a popular destination for excursions offering a variety of activities. Vargek-Ipsa has always been interested in technology: ‘I actually wanted to become a mechanic after nursing wasn't really my thing,’ smiles the 50-year-old. But then she decided to go to university. After always being drawn to it, as she says, she decided to study mining at the Montanuniversität. ‘I told myself I'd try it for a year and see if I liked it. In the end, I stuck with it.’

Reunion brought change 

After completing her studies, Vargek-Ipsa initially moved abroad. Following further positions in Salzburg and Kitzbühel, her path led her back to Erzberg. She had already completed an internship here during her studies. A chance reunion with one of the managing directors years later at a conference set things in motion. ‘He said there was a position available that would be interesting for me and that I should apply.’ At that time, the Burgenland native was looking for a career change anyway. She has been working as a district manager at Erzberg since 2018. She sums up her enjoyment of her work in three words: ‘I've found my place.’ She never had to overcome any hurdles. Nevertheless, she had to assert herself in a male-dominated working environment. ‘As a woman, you have to be twice as capable and prove what you can do. But once that's clear, you're widely accepted.’ Equipped with the necessary quick wit – because that's what you need in a male-dominated environment, she says with a wink – she has gone her own way. Her biggest supporters were her parents: ‘They always told me to do what I believed in, and they support me. Without them, I wouldn't be where I am today.’ She herself made a conscious decision not to start a family. ‘My studies and my job took priority. I love my work.’ She enjoys every minute she spends outside at the Erzberg. But she also allows herself time off – albeit rarely. ‘I enjoy the peace and quiet, preferably with a good book or going cycling.’ She recently got her own garden and is getting to work on it. What advice does the 50-year-old have for young girls? ‘Be brave and follow your own path! Many struggle with clichés and prejudices and don't dare to pursue typically male professions.’

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