On 23 June, we’ll be joining organisations around the world in celebrating International Women in Engineering Day (IWED). A day to recognise the incredible contributions of women in engineering and to encourage more girls and young women to explore careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Founded by the Women's Engineering Society (WES) in 2014, IWED has become a global awareness campaign that highlights the work of women engineers and promotes greater gender balance in the field. Each year, the day brings attention to the achievements of women in engineering, many of whom are breaking new ground and driving innovation across industries.
Why It Matters
Despite progress, women are still underrepresented in engineering roles worldwide. Figures released by the Women’s Engineering Society in 2021 indicated that only 16.5% of people working in engineering professions were women. These statistics demonstrate why there is a pressing need to showcase powerful women role models and highlight the diverse career paths available to inspire women in STEM professions. IWED is a chance to shine a light on those making a difference and to inspire the next generation of engineers. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on how we can all help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in technical fields.
IWED at Sussex “Engineering Intelligence”
The theme for this year’s IWED is “Engineering Intelligence” celebrating the amazing work that women engineers around the world are doing and profiling the best, brightest and bravest women in engineering, who solve complex challenges and drive inclusive progress through engineering intelligence. To mark the day the School of Engineering and Informatics is hosting a poster exhibition featuring the research of some of the School’s talented postgraduate and undergraduate student researchers. The exhibition is accessible online via Padlet and physical posters will be displayed in Faculty common spaces for two weeks following 23 June. The posters will also be displayed at an event to celebrate the life and work of Professor Margaret Boden being held on 30 June in Pevensey Building, details of the event can be found here.
Further information and resources can be found on the International Women in Engineering Day Official Site