With International Women in Engineering Day on 23 June, data released by Engineering UK shows the proportion of women in engineering roles has declined in the past year from 16.5% to 15.7%
In contrast, women make up more than half of the rest of the UK workforce (56.1%).
Despite recent progress, the engineering industry still has a long way to go, as everyday sexism remains prevalent.
The decline of women in engineering roles over the past year highlights the ongoing barriers they face but also the industry’s failure to create an inclusive environment where women can thrive and advance in their careers.
“There is a stigma around women in engineering”
Rachel Fitzpatrick, a graduate civil engineer at Harley Haddow, believes that despite positive changes made since the start of her career, the industry still needs to be made a comfortable environment for female engineers.
She said: “I feel there is a stigma around women in engineering. That we should look or talk a certain way which is simply a load of rubbish. I have been told countless times that I ‘don’t look like an engineer.’
“I understand that the industry is really trying to push for equality, but this can also, unfortunately, result in some small-minded people claiming that jobs are going to people just to fit this new ‘inclusivity and diversity’ mantra.
“For a woman to make it through the education system and into a role in engineering, the reality is she has already had to fight an uphill battle along the way, and the fact that we are still there and wanting to work in the industry is testament to our drive and resolve. This in itself is a huge skill and asset, and it is this that is forgotten by those that say women are being gifted jobs without earning it.”
Women have a heightened awareness of workplace safety
Kathryn Sykes, project structural engineer at Harley Haddow, said that not only is she mindful of the typical health and safety risks on site, but also the potential threats.
Sykes said: “[…] I take precautions, such as avoiding solo site visits when meeting strangers, especially in remote areas. I prefer having someone accompany me rather than entering houses alone, and I’m cautious about entering confined spaces with men on site.”
Retention remains an issue for women in engineering
Analysis of Engineering UK figures has shown that the drop in women leaving the industry is concentrated among women aged 35 to 44.
A lack of progression and the industry being slow to adapt to crate flexible options that accommodate family responsibilities effectively are thought to be contributing factors behind this.
Women in decision-making processes will lead to a more equitable society
Engineering offers women the opportunity to shape the world from a women’s perspective.
The reality is that the world is predominantly designed and built by men for men, as evidenced by the number of toilets in event spaces.
These spaces typically allocate equal areas for each gender, but since men take less time and more urinals can fit in the same space, women often face long queues. This miscalculation underscores a significant oversight in the design process.
Increasing the presence of women in decision-making roles would help address these issues, leading to practical solutions and fostering a more equitable society.
Sykes concluded: “Engineering is a field where creativity meets problem-solving, and every challenge you tackle can lead to breakthroughs that improve lives. Don’t let stereotypes or misconceptions deter you! The industry is evolving, and there is a growing recognition of the need for diversity.”
