Happy International Women in Engineering Day
Posted on: June 23, 2022
Today is International Women in Engineering Day. The day aims to spread awareness and establish a more balanced landscape for the future of engineering. The first International Women in Engineering Day was launched for the first time in the UK on June 23rd, 2014, by the Women's Engineering Society (WES) to celebrate its 95th anniversary.
It celebrates the outstanding achievements and accolades of female engineers throughout the world. The science of engineering touches almost every facet of how we live today. Today, we live more convenient and less strenuous lives, from our transport systems to smart homes, phones, and everything in between.
Even today, the misconception that engineering is a male-dominated industry is still prevalent. Therefore, International Women in Engineering Day reminds us that it's far from it. According to (WES) statistics, Women account for 14.5% of all engineers. A 25.7% increase in female engineers (up from 4.6% in the overall workforce) since 2016. The number of women working in engineering has risen from 721,586 in Q2 of 2016 to 906,785 in Q3 of 2020.
International Women in Engineering Day – Where it Began
Since its launch in 2014, International Women in Engineering Day has grown immensely. In 2016 it received UNESCO patronage, and in 2017, International Women in Engineering Day became truly international for the first time as interest and enthusiasm developed as the global audience increased.
International Women in Engineering Day's primary purpose is to encourage women's growth within the engineering sector. Engineering organizations across governmental and educational institutions are encouraged to show support on the day.
Routledge has created a Women in STEM Hub. So whether you want to overcome challenges, gain career confidence or delve into the social and cultural factors for women in STEM, there's much to support your development.
How to get involved in International Women in Engineering Day
The history of women working in engineering is compelling. So today, why not read up on some of the marvelous things women have accomplished in engineering throughout history. Here we highlight some of the most famous and influential female role models in STEM to inspire you!
International Women in Engineering Day is an international awareness campaign to raise the profile of women in engineering and focus attention on the fantastic career opportunities available to girls in this exciting space. Women have many barriers to cross; still, International Women in Engineering Day gives a platform to and celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of women engineers worldwide.
International Women in Engineering Day takes place annually, and there are many ways to get involved. You could start by promoting the Women in STEM Hub to your colleagues and students. We have produced two posters you can print and display in your department or library. You can also share information about the day with your friends.
Ultimately, International Women in Engineering Day aims to spread awareness and nurture an engineering culture where women's contributions are valued as equally as their male counterparts.