23rd June: International Women in Engineering Day!

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Since 1982, women have earned almost 10 million more degrees than men. Even though women earn more degrees, greater academic success hasn’t always transferred into more positions within the workplace. In particular, the percentage of women working in engineering remains consistently low.

There is a lack of women in high-paying STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) roles. In the UK, 6 million people work in engineering and manufacturing; however, only 16.5% of this workforce is female. While many think this is too low, it does at least represent an increase of 25% from figures published in 2016.

The 23rd of June marks the ninth year of International Women in Engineering Day. In 2022 these fields tend to have some of the greatest earning potentials. Women’s absence from these roles substantially contributes to the gender pay gap. Even after obtaining their degree, men are more likely than women to work in engineering jobs. So, what is being done to attract women into the field?

As society has given greater recognition to women in this traditionally male-dominated field, it has become more popular amongst younger girls. Many of whom have been inspired by projects such as ‘Women in Stem’ and The London Engineering Project, led by the Royal Academy of Engineering, to educate and encourage girls into the field.

Other initiatives include The Women in Engineering Society (WES), a charity and network of women engineers, scientists and technologists working with and celebrating women’s achievements in the field. The society offers a mentoring scheme and annual student conference that allows women in the industry to network and access support and advice.

WES are also keen to change misconceptions about careers within the field. Engineering is not a specific role and comprises a range of vastly different jobs. A common misconception is that it is working in a factory or fixing and installing the machinery. Some roles are like this and are very hands-on, involving installations and factory work. But there is a creation and design element, which involves 3D printing, electrical and material engineers.

Robotics and Artificial Intelligence student Laura Lamond has also run a successful 3D printing business on Etsy and will gain her Bachelor of Engineering degree from Heriot-Watt University.

“I always loved Art and Design Technology when I was in High school. I also always loved to create things.

“I was always building things from Lego when I was younger or making toys and buildings out of paper. I knew I wanted a career where I could invent and create things.”

After discovering YouTube videos and tutorials online, Laura found a passion for 3D printing.

“I initially wanted to animate, but I got frustrated that my creations would always be confined to a screen.

“After discovering 3D printing, I realised I could make my inventions a reality and people could use and interact with them. That’s when I thought about making robots.

“I saved up and bought a small 3D printer. I then started to sell my custom 3D printed designs on Etsy.

“After making some YouTube videos about how I 3D model, I received comments from people asking me if they could buy my designs. So that's when I decided to open an Etsy store so other people could enjoy my designs too.

“I knew I wanted to pursue it as my career, so I researched relevant courses and was accepted at Heriot-Watt.”

Laura is eager for mindsets to change and for more young girls and women to get involved with Engineering.

“I think there are misconceptions about being in the Engineering industry, but if you are interested in it, then go for it!

“It is so much fun, and gender should never have an impact on you pursuing your dreams.”