In our second blog post for International Women's Day, we meet María Teresa Celestino, better known as Tessy, who has been working with us since 2025 on the conceptual design of projects, the writing of R&D&I proposals, and the structuring of technological initiatives based on artificial intelligence, data analysis, and intelligent systems.
Tessy's background combines communication, innovation, and advanced data analysis, allowing her to develop an interdisciplinary vision of technology. “Before joining the AIR Institute, I was already involved in the preparation and management of projects, especially in areas related to data analysis and digitization. This experience allowed me to understand how technology can be translated from research to real-world applications that generate social and economic impact,” she stated.
Regarding her work at the AIR Institute, Tessy says she is passionate about the opportunity to transform innovative ideas into concrete projects, as well as the challenge of constantly learning, exploring new solutions, and connecting different disciplines to address the challenges of artificial intelligence and technological innovation. “I find it especially motivating to contribute to projects that seek to develop more ethical, accessible, and inclusive technologies, capable of adapting to people's real needs,” she noted.
For Tessy, the AIR Institute is not only a technology center that promotes innovation projects, but also a place with an excellent human environment where the people who make up each team are cared for, and there is a culture of collaboration, support, and mutual growth that makes daily work much more enriching. “Having a team with such high human quality, where knowledge is shared, continuous learning takes place, and each other's ideas are supported, is undoubtedly one of the things I enjoy most about my work,” she added.
Why should women participate more in science, technology, and research?
“Science and technology are key areas for defining the future of our society; therefore, it is essential that they be built from a diverse perspective. Women's participation in these fields is not only a matter of equal opportunities, but also of scientific quality and innovation. When different perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking contribute to technological development, solutions tend to be more comprehensive, inclusive, and aligned with the real needs of society.”
“Technology is increasingly present in all aspects of our lives (from education and health to industry and public administration), so it is important that women are actively involved in the teams that design and develop these solutions. Their participation helps to avoid biases, broaden perspectives, and ensure that innovation takes into account the diversity of the people it is ultimately intended for.”
“Visibility is also a key factor. When girls and young women see female role models in science, technology, and research, it’s easier for them to imagine themselves in those fields. That’s why it’s important to continue promoting initiatives that encourage STEM vocations, support female talent, and create professional environments where women can fully develop. Consequently, increasing the presence of women in these fields not only enriches research and innovation but also contributes to building a fairer, more representative, and balanced technological future for all of society.”
Achievements throughout Tessy’s professional career
One of the achievements that our colleague values most is being able to contribute to the design of initiatives that connect advanced research with real-world applications capable of generating impact. She also takes on the challenge of developing her doctoral research in applied artificial intelligence, specifically in the design of adaptive, ethical, and accessible conversational agents, allowing her to delve deeper into the intersection of technology, inclusion, and digital regulation. She also values the opportunity to contribute her small part to educational and outreach initiatives aimed at girls and young women interested in science and technology.
At this point in her career, Tessy combines several aspects: continuous learning, developing new ideas, and disseminating knowledge to help spark technological vocations in new generations.
For her, being part of technological advancement in different sectors of society, even with small contributions, and seeing how knowledge translates into real change is something that deeply inspires her and always brings a smile to her face at the office.
As has been clear from the beginning, Tessy is part of the R&D&I projects team, made up mostly of talented women committed to promoting science and innovation at the AIR Institute.