Futuristic graphical user interface concept.

Celebrating Women in Engineering Day: Why Diversity Matters in the Industry

Engineering is a field that has long been dominated by men, traditionally almost exclusive to men, with a culture that has often discouraged women from entering or staying within the field. But as we mark Women in Engineering Day on June 23rd, 2023, it is important to recognise the important contributions that women have made and continue to make in the industry. Diversity is vital in engineering, and ensuring that women are represented is key to creating an inclusive and innovative industry that benefits everyone.

One of our team members at Multitone, Rebecca Stevens, is a UI/UX designer bucking this trend. UI/UX designers create user interfaces for apps, websites, or other interactive products. Rebecca’s work includes collaborating with product managers and engineers to gather requirements from users before designing solutions.

Rebecca is unusual, however; the statistics are clear: women are vastly underrepresented in engineering. In the UK, only 12% of engineers are women, while in the US, women make up only 13% of the engineering workforce. This lack of representation not only means that women are missing out on opportunities but also that the industry is missing out on the benefits of a diverse workforce. Studies show that diverse teams are more innovative, productive, and ultimately, profitable. By ensuring that women are represented in engineering, we can help drive the industry forward.

One reason why women may be discouraged from entering engineering is because of the outdated stereotypes associated with the industry. There is a common misconception that engineering is a man’s job, and that it is only suited for individuals who excel at maths and science. But engineering is a field that requires a wide range of skills and abilities, including creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills. By breaking down these stereotypes and highlighting the diverse range of talents needed in engineering, we can encourage more women to enter and thrive in the industry.

One way to promote diversity in engineering is by increasing the visibility of female engineers. By showcasing the work of successful female engineers, we can inspire the next generation of women to pursue careers in engineering. Companies can also support women in engineering by providing mentorship, sponsorship, and training programs to help them progress in their careers. By actively promoting diversity and inclusion within their organisations, companies can create a workplace culture that values and supports all employees.

Another way to encourage diversity in engineering is by addressing the gender pay gap. Women engineers earn on average 13% less than their male counterparts, according to the latest figures. Addressing this gap can help ensure that women are not deterred from entering the industry and that they are valued and rewarded for their contributions. By providing equal pay and opportunities for women, we can help make engineering a more welcoming and inclusive field.

Conclusion

As we celebrate Women in Engineering Day on June 23rd, 2023, it is important to recognise the vital contributions that women make to the industry. Ensuring that women are represented in engineering is not only important for promoting equality but also for creating a diverse and innovative industry. By breaking down stereotypes, encouraging visibility and support for female engineers, and addressing the gender pay gap, we can help make engineering a more welcoming and inclusive field for everyone. Let’s celebrate the women in engineering including our own Rebecca Stevens, and work towards a more diverse and inclusive industry.

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