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Released today (23 June) to coincide with International Women in Engineering Day (Inwed), the research was carried out by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) and education-focused EngineeringUK, which both work with IMechE.
Women are still massively underrepresented in engineering and technology despite years of effort from campaign groups, trade organisations, politicians and companies. Female engineers make up only 16.9% of the workforce, compared to roughly 10% in 2010.
The survey asked WES members what they would like to see the community doing more of to inspire more young women into the sector. The top three responses from the 129 respondents were: ‘promote the wide range of careers available in engineering, especially those that make a positive difference in the world’ (78%); ‘support teachers with better training and resources to talk about engineering careers’ (76%); and ‘start engaging children earlier – in primary or early secondary school’ (69%).
Other popular suggestions included ‘showcase more visible female role models in engineering and technology’ (64%) and ‘challenge gender stereotypes in education, media and wider society’ (62%).
The research also found that 38% of respondents receive informal support from other women in engineering. “Support networks and visible role models are vital – not only for retaining and progressing women in engineering, but for inspiring the next generation,” said Susan Robson, WES interim CEO.
“70% of women also cite that mentoring and sponsorship are critical for progression, and networks can be a key enabler for these. International Women in Engineering Day reminds us just how powerful that collective impact can be.”
Dr Hilary Leevers, chief executive of EngineeringUK, said: “Female representation in the sector is growing, but at a slow rate that will not meet workforce needs... It’s moving in the right direction, but we need to build commitment and momentum to make a bigger difference faster.
“We’ve partnered with the Royal Academy of Engineering, Women’s Engineering Society, BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, and Women Into Science and Engineering to address this. Through this gender pathways project, we are working with over 40 organisations with the collective mission to drive up the number of young women on pathways into engineering and technology at 18. Together, we will focus on key areas influencing girls and young women’s engineering and technology career choices.”
Surveyed WES members explained their motivations for mentoring. “I mentor a number of young women,” one respondent said. “Mainly I speak to them about following their passions and not letting anything hold them back. I also explain the practicalities of following the field of engineering, subjects to study, interview tips and general confidence building.”
Another engineer said: “My aim is always to be a visible and positive role model for young women, and I am passionate about making sure they have full awareness of the engineering career landscape in order to make those big career-based decisions.”
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