Today celebrates National Women in Engineering Day, a day dedicated to raising the profile and recognising the achievements of women in the engineering industry.
They may make up a small percentage of the UK’s engineering workforce (less than 10%) but we should never underestimate the impact they make in these typically male dominated roles, or the importance of encouraging the younger generation to choose this exciting career path.
Whilst at school, engineering is always seen as a predominately male industry but it’s essential we step-change this way of thinking and engage with young female students. It is important to highlight the jobs that are available and paths that students can take if they choose engineering, which itself is a varied and diverse umbrella of subjects.
One of the most successful female engineers and a great role model was Emily Roebling, who stepped in as the first female engineer and technical leader on the Brooklyn Bridge build when her husband was no longer able to work due to paralysis. She became responsible for much of the chief engineer’s duties, including day-to-day supervision and project management. If this is not a role model for the future female engineers then who is?
With the skills shortage that we are currently experiencing in the industry, there has never been a better time for us to promote careers within engineering, which can open up a world of opportunities for young people.
At Morris Site Machinery we encourage people from all walks of life, regardless of their gender, to be part of our ‘one team’ philosophy and pursue a career in engineering. We hope that more companies across the UK recognise and celebrate our female engineers so we can change the industry and inspire more women to take up a career in our industry.
Look out for the top 50 women in engineering supplement in today’s @Telegraph for #NWED2016