How to encourage more Women to pursue Engineering - Insights from Emma Whale

Why is it Important to Encourage More Women to Pursue Careers in Engineering?

Diversity in any field brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas. In engineering, this diversity is vital for innovation. Encouraging both men and women to pursue engineering careers is not only empowering for everyone but also drives progress within the industry. A balanced workforce leads to better problem-solving and more creative solutions.

How Can You Better Introduce Engineering Concepts to Women at a Young Age?

Start early! Introduce engineering concepts through fun, hands-on activities. Build Lego structures, explore simple machines, or experiment with basic coding. Schools should continue to incorporate STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) activities into the curriculum, that subtly challenge historical stereotypes ensuring both men and young women feel encouraged and valued in STEM fields. I have seen a rise in offered STEM clubs that hand promote participation in competitions and challenges which has engaged parents to support home-based activities, which has been fantastic.

How Can Colleges and Training Centres Create a More Inclusive Environment for Female Engineering Students?

Creating a welcoming environment is the first step to fostering inclusivity. Showcasing a balance of male and female role models and hiring female engineering specialists as well as their male counterparts helps drive an inclusive curriculum. There are great Mentor programs running within FE organisations now and these support networks are essential, offering guidance and inspiration. Dedicated study groups and women-in-engineering clubs have been on the rise which has made female students feel valued and supported, promoting a more inclusive atmosphere. Nearly all education organisations these days have policies to address any form of discrimination or bias, but it is important to note how crucial they are for maintaining a respectful and encouraging environment for all students.

Why do you believe it is vital for industry partnerships and apprenticeship programs to be inclusive of female engineering students?

It is so necessary for industry partnerships and employers also to be inclusive of female engineering students. Industry inclusion is key in pioneering diversity and equal opportunities in a field that has been traditionally male-dominated. Apprenticeships have been a growing success story of late. These programs provide essential exposure, practical skills, and networking opportunities, enabling women to gain confidence and competence in the field. By both employers and apprenticeship programmes supporting female students in transitioning into the workplace we can create a more equitable and dynamic workforce, benefiting both the industry and society as a whole.

What Are Some Initiatives That Have Successfully Increased Participation in Engineering?

There are several fantastic initiatives making a difference at the moment. Girls Who Code offers programs that equip young women with computing skills. Women in Engineering ProActive Network (WEPAN) focuses on transforming culture in engineering education to foster inclusion. TechSheCan provides resources and support to encourage women in STEM. These initiatives, among others, are excellent and create communities where young women feel supported and inspired to pursue engineering.

As a recruiter, how do you strategise to effectively find female applicants for teaching roles?

As more females enter engineering training and the industry, the pool of suitable candidates naturally grows for us.  To effectively find female applicants for teaching roles, we leverage professional networks, academic conferences, and workshops focused on women in engineering to connect with potential candidates. Using inclusive language in job postings and advertising on platforms targeting female professionals is crucial. Additionally, building positive relationships with current female faculty leaders helps us understand their pathways and experiences, which is valuable to share with prospective candidates. By creating a welcoming and inclusive recruitment process, which also supports the dispelling of stereotypes we can attract top female talent to teaching roles.