Female Engineer is in Demand
Despite the long-held perception that engineering is ‘a boys club’, females are now more represented in STEM careers than ever before. This is in part due to campaigns by organisations such as Women in Engineering Society and WISE, and a growing awareness that women are suited to many different types of engineering roles.
However, it’s still a fact that males are more likely to be working as female heating and gas engineers than women. This is partly down to the stereotype that engineering involves getting your hands dirty, which doesn’t appeal to women who may prefer a more office-based role. But it’s also down to the underlying beliefs that engineering is ‘hard work’ and a man’s job. This is a perception that needs to be addressed, and it starts at an early age.
It’s clear that there’s a need to encourage more women into STEM careers and especially the field of engineering. Thankfully, this is something that many schools and universities are now doing. By making STEM subjects more exciting, they hope to inspire students from a young age and increase the number of females choosing to study engineering at college or university.
Which Female Engineer is in Demand?
In some cases, there are even courses dedicated to introducing women to the engineering world. There are also many organisations, both professional and non-profit, that offer mentoring and internships for women in STEM. These can be a great way for women to get the experience and confidence they need to break into this field.
There’s a lot of demand for engineering skills right now, and this is set to continue. There are many industries and sectors in need of skilled professionals, including construction, IT, aerospace and pharmaceuticals. But one of the most important areas where there is a huge gap for engineers is in the energy sector. In order to prepare for the energy transition, the industry needs a new generation of skilled engineers – and it needs them to be female.
Some women have taken it upon themselves to be role models for future female engineers, carrying the torch of those who have forged ahead in this traditionally male-dominated field. From helping construct some of the world’s most recognisable bridges to creating some of our favourite modern-day appliances, these women are proof that women can be just as successful in engineering as men.
There are many reasons why women choose not to pursue a career as an engineer, including stereotypical images of the profession, long hours and travel. But the benefits of becoming a qualified engineer outweigh these issues. As we head towards the energy transformation, there has never been a better time for women to get into the engineering world. And there are plenty of options available to them, from mentorship programmes to women-only networking events. So if you’re thinking of becoming an engineer, don’t be put off by the stereotypes, and go for it! You might be surprised at what you can achieve. You just might end up changing the world in the process.
