Interview with Biljana Atanasovska: Women’s leadership and safety standards in the industry
We have created a platform for millennial women working in the industry who are ready to share their success stories. We launched a series of interviews to highlight their inspiring experiences and achievements, focusing on women who are transforming the world around them. In this edition, we spoke with Biljana Atanasovska, inspector and controller of X-ray (RTG) machines and president of the NGO “Apple Tree”.
Can you tell us more about the company where you are working and its objective?
As President of the non-governmental organization Apple Tree, I work on empowering women and young people especially within industry and technical professions, through education, practical skill development, and the creation of opportunities for professional growth. The goal of the organization is to promote equal opportunities, leadership, and active participation of women in fields where they have traditionally been underrepresented. In parallel, I am professionally engaged in the inspection and control of X-ray (RTG) devices, where I contribute to safe industrial and healthcare practices, as well as safe operation of radiographic equipment. My expertise is strengthened by several micro-master programs and specialized trainings, which allow me to integrate technical knowledge with social impact.
What challenges have you faced as a millennial woman working in your industry, and how have you overcome them?
Working in industrial and technical fields often brings challenges for millennial women, particularly regarding the recognition of their expertise and leadership roles. As a woman in an inspection and regulatory position, I faced the need to repeatedly prove my competence. I overcame these challenges through continuous education, professional discipline, clear communication, and through results that build trust. At the same time, my involvement in Apple Tree allowed me to transform my personal struggle into a broader mission to support other women across different sectors.
What competencies or skills do you believe are most valuable for millennial women in the workplace, and why?
For millennial women working in industry, the most valuable skills include technical literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability, combined with strong communication abilities and emotional intelligence. Additionally, integrity-driven leadership and the ability to take responsibility are crucial for building credibility in industrial environments. These skills enable women not only to be present, but to actively influence and drive change.
How can millennial women continue to develop and refine their skills in the industry?
Continued development in the industry requires active participation in trainings, specialized programs, and hands-on experience. Micro-master programs, mentorship, and involvement in professional networks are essential tools for skill enhancement. It is also important for women to be encouraged to apply for responsible roles, participate in projects, and view learning as an ongoing process – an approach central to the EMPOWERING initiative.
How do you think millennial women bring a unique perspective to the industry compared to previous generations?
Millennial women bring a more inclusive and flexible approach to work, combining technical expertise with a strong awareness of social impact. Unlike previous generations, they are more oriented toward collaboration, sustainability, and maintaining a balance between professional and personal life. This perspective contributes to building a modern, responsible, and innovative industry.
How do you see the role of mentorship and support networks playing a part in the advancement and success of millennial women in the workplace?
Mentorship and supportive networks are essential for the success of women in industry, and in any field. They provide guidance, experience-sharing, and access to opportunities that are often difficult to reach without support. Within the EMPOWERING initiative, such networks create a space where women are encouraged to grow, take on leadership roles, and strengthen their position in the industry through collective support and solidarity.
Biljana Atanasovska
Inspector and controller of X-ray (RTG) machines and president of the NGO “Apple Tree”.
