Women in Tech 100 Top Speakers 2023

Marcela Ruiz Aguilar, a distinguished Marine Biologist with a Master’s in Strategic Management and Project Evaluation, stands as an accomplished professional in hydroacoustics and executive leadership. Currently serving as the Executive Director of Acústica Marina Company, her expertise lies in providing innovative solutions in hydroacoustics.

Marcela is also recognized for her impactful role as the Vice President of the State Alumni Chile Association (SACh), leading the STEAM GIRLS initiative. Actively involved in international collaborations, she is a member of the Chile-United States Council for Science, Technology, and Innovation, as well as a valued contributor to the Network of Researchers. In 2023, Marcela’s significant contributions earned her the prestigious title of the MOST DISRUPTIVE GLOBAL and MOST DISRUPTIVE Latam award from Women in Tech – global movement. Her commitment to innovation is further exemplified by the nomination of Acústica Marina for the Avonni award, a significant recognition in Chile’s innovation landscape.

Marcela’s remarkable journey includes winning the Tech Entrepreneur category at the Women that Build Awards 2022 in Chile, a testament to her leadership in the tech industry. Her achievements extend to being honored with the Women Leaders in Science, Technology, Innovation, and Talent award from the Women Economic Forum Chile in 2021. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Marcela has actively participated in numerous initiatives and programs promoting women’s economic participation, notably her role in the Avante Challenge, where her team secured first place.

As a seasoned international leader, she was part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) “Women Leaders: Drivers of Economic and Social Change” in 2018. Marcela’s dedication to fostering women’s involvement in various sectors is reflected in her roles as the Executive Secretary of “Congreso Futuro los Ríos” and as a founding member of the Association of Chilean Businesswomen Asia Pacific A.G (ACHEAP). Her notable contributions have earned her accolades, including the Outstanding Businesswoman award from the Gender Department of the Directorate of International Economic Relations in 2016.