One of the first women expert to be recognized under the Career Expert program.
Being a specialist in non-destructive testing (NDT) at Vallourec requires technical expertise and a real ability to adapt. Anna Carolina possesses both qualities. As a Level III NDT specialist in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, she plays a crucial role with the primary mission of ensuring that product inspection processes comply with current standards and meet customer specifications.
NDT Engineers are responsible for inspecting and evaluating materials, products and structures without damaging them, using different methods such as ultrasonic, magnetic particles, dye penetrants, magnetic flux leakage, eddy currents, spectrometry, x-ray, and others, aiming to detect defects and ensure product quality, integrity and safety.
As part of our diversity, inclusion, and equity program “We are Vallourec,” we celebrate our employees, regardless of their age, gender, or culture. Their journeys and achievements reflect our commitment to recognizing excellence and promoting a work environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to our collective success
“In 2024, our NDT team led key initiatives to obtain critical qualifications for NDT Equipment at the Barreiro and Jeceaba plants,” explains Anna Carolina. “These qualifications were particularly rigorous as they followed the strict requirements of IOGP S-735 specifications for OCTG products and IOGP S-616 for PLP products. The latter specification is even more strategic as it has a direct impact on new PLP Projects launched in the South American region. We are very proud of this.“
The greatest challenge for Anna Carolina in the field of non-destructive testing lies in managing the complexity of processes and ensuring that every detail complies with technical standards. “What I find most rewarding is observing the impact of NDT processes on the entire production chain. Contributing to significant results and improving quality for our customers provides a real sense of accomplishment.“
Having previously worked for Vallourec, Anna Carolina chose to return to the Group in 2023 due to the culture of the company and the environment it offers, as well as the skill development opportunities provided to employees. “Vallourec values and invests heavily in the technical training of its employees, which is not common in large companies in Brazil. There is a culture of continuous learning and technical expertise here. This is a fundamental value for me. I love acquiring new knowledge and taking on challenges. It motivates me to progress every day.“
After obtaining her degree in metallurgical engineering, Anna Carolina began her career at Vallourec in 2013, in Jeceaba, as a quality engineer, specializing, from the start, in non-destructive testing and focusing on quality control processes and initiatives.
During this period, she was certified as a Level 2 NDT Expert. In 2018, she joined the NDT team at the Barreiro plant after obtaining her Level 3 NDT – ISO 9712 certifications. This role offered her the opportunity to take on major challenges, such as managing Capex and R&D projects as well as strategic missions in non-destructive testing.
In 2019, she was one of the first women to be recognized as an NDT expert under Vallourec’s Career Experts program.
However, between 2021 and 2023, she chose to take a break and explore new opportunities. She then deepened her NDT skills in two companies in the steelmaking and oil & gas sectors. At the end of 2023, she seized the opportunity to rejoin the Vallourec Group.
If you ask her, Anna Carolina will tell you that to succeed in a technical career, it is essential to develop analytical thinking, critical and strategic reasoning, as well as strong problem-solving skills. “Beyond technical expertise, proactivity and teamwork are crucial. A collaborative spirit fosters innovation and continuous improvement, while taking strategic initiatives drives progress and demonstrates a sense of responsibility,” she adds.
As a woman in the industry, Anna Carolina has faced challenges. “There are times when our expertise or ability is questioned, when our voices are ignored, even when we are the technical reference on the subject. These moments can be frustrating, but they remind us of the importance of defending our position and exercising our right to speak. Have confidence in your skills and in your ability to learn and adapt continuously to the professional environment.“
Her advice to other women and even men in her field is clear: “Do not be afraid of challenges, as they will help you grow professionally. This is the key to long-term success in an expert career. And above all, surround yourself with the right people: a professional network that supports you, colleagues who can provide sound advice, and opportunities for learning and development.“
In her professional life as well as in her friendships, Anna Carolina promotes women’s equality by drawing on her own experiences. Her motto: share ideas and participate in discussions. “I believe that real change happens when we all, men and women, actively challenge the status quo and continuously work towards an inclusive and equal society.“
Outside of work, Anna Carolina loves adventure and traveling around the world to meet new people and discover different cultures. “My curiosity drives me to learn and discover new skills and hobbies. But I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends, as well as my adorable Shih Tzu dogs.“
