Conquering gender stereotypes

21 August, 2015

Although small in numbers, Wells points out that there is an army of proud and exceptional female engineers in the UK. In fact, 98 per cent of female engineers consider their job to be rewarding. These engineering women have built a strong network of support to praise and encourage women in industry. Launched in 2014, The National Women in Engineering Day (NWED) celebrates the achievements of female engineers across the country. Similarly, the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) presents the annual Young Woman Engineer Award to acknowledge the work of exceptional female engineers under 35.

“Much like the legendary shieldmaidens of the Viking era, successful female engineers are held in high regard beside their male counterparts,” remarked Wells. “Industry awards and increased media coverage have elevated the importance of the ‘female engineer’ to nationally recognised status, encouraging ambitious young women to conquer the engineering stereotype – perhaps with less pillaging and more programming.” Long may this trend continue – but no pillaging please.

Ed Holden

Editor