Since 2022, Metaproject has held the Chilean NCH3262 certification, which recognizes the implementation of a Gender Equality and Work-Life Balance Management System. This 2025, the organization reached a new milestone: its recertification, which reinforces the company's commitment to a fair, inclusive and sustainable work environment.
We spoke with Lorena Penna, Quality Manager, about the process, the lessons learned, the benefits for the organizational culture and the upcoming challenges in terms of equity.
When did the process to implement the NCH3262 standard begin at Metaproject and what motivated the organization to make this decision?
The process began with an initiative of ENAP, which encouraged its contractors to participate in workshops on gender equity and, as a commitment, to implement NCH3262. The first stage was led by Alicia Vargas, personnel manager, with the creation of a gender committee to review actions aimed at gender equity.
Since what year have we been officially certified to NCH3262 and what did this milestone mean for the company?
We were officially certified in 2022 under the NCH 3262:2012 Standard. This milestone allowed us to apply the gender approach in Metaproject's activities, consolidating equality as a key element of sustainable development.
What were the main milestones along the way from the beginning of the process to the recertification achieved this year?
The main milestones were:
Initial Grant Date: June 3, 2022
2023: Upgrade of the standard, certifying us in the new version NCH 3262:2021.
2025: Recertification of the system under the updated version of the standard
What has it been like to lead, from the HSEQ area, the compliance with this certification over time?
It should be noted that this standard does not pertain directly to the HSEQ area. NCH3262 involves all people working in Metaproject. Each process is key to advancing gender equity and encouraging co-responsibility in family roles, through reconciliation measures.
What challenges have been involved in maintaining the standard of this norm and overcoming them in the 2025 recertification?
The main challenge is that each person working in the organization must adapt to the times of equality without losing his or her individual essence.
What organizational lessons were learned from this process, both in technical and human terms?
It is a constant learning process. There is always room for growth.
What concrete benefits has this certification brought to Metaproject's internal culture?
The main benefit has been to generate an atmosphere of mutual respect at all times.
How has the implementation of NCH3262 favored the reconciliation between work, personal and family life in the company?
The main objective of the standard is to promote co-responsibility in family roles. In this sense, Management is committed to this approach, promoting a responsible attitude, regardless of the type of activity performed by each person.
How is the impact of this standard reflected in internal indicators or practices such as flexibility, work environment or female participation?
One of the most concrete advances is to approach a committed gender band of 40% - 60%, with the aspiration of achieving an equitable distribution of close to 50%.
Which areas and teams were key to achieve recertification and how was the articulation between them?
All processes are involved. They are all key: if one fails, the whole system fails.
What role do our employees play in the sustainability of this equality and work-life balance policy?
In a management system, the policy is a living and dynamic element. The role of each person in Metaproject is essential: every activity performed by each employee is a direct contribution to the objectives of the equality and work-life balance policy.
What challenges or new commitments does Metaproject face for the future in terms of equity and inclusion?
Continue adapting our processes to consolidate equity, strengthen co-responsibility and continue advancing in a more inclusive environment, in line with the challenges of the future of work.
Beyond obtaining or recertifying a standard, what is at stake is a deep commitment to people. At Metaproject, we understand that equity, respect and conciliation are not just concepts, but everyday practices that are reflected in decisions, structures and culture.
Thanks to the commitment of each employee, we continue to strengthen a culture where respect, equity and inclusion are not only promoted, but lived every day. In this way, we move forward together in building a more humane and diverse organization, aligned with our purpose of engineering and innovation at the service of people.
