In the UK, women are playing a crucial role in transforming the engineering industry, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to complex challenges. Despite their significant contributions, women remain underrepresented in the sector, making up just 15.7% of the engineering workforce as of 2024. While progress has been made, this highlights the ongoing need to encourage and support women in engineering.
The proportion of women in engineering has steadily increased over the past decade, rising from 10.5% in 2010 to 16.5% in 2022. However, recent figures show a slight decline to 15.7% in 2024, with many women aged 35 to 44 leaving the profession.
This highlights the need for better retention strategies. Initiatives that address barriers such as work-life balance, lack of flexible working options, and gender bias will be crucial in supporting women throughout their engineering careers.
Diversity is essential for driving innovation and addressing the UK’s skills gap. Engineering problems are complex, and diverse teams bring broader perspectives to problem-solving. Research shows that organisations with greater gender diversity perform better and are more profitable, making the case for increased female representation stronger than ever.
Companies such as Siemens are setting ambitious targets for gender diversity, aiming for at least 30% female representation in leadership roles by 2025. Such goals not only improve organisational performance but also make the industry more attractive to young women considering careers in engineering.
Several initiatives aim to bridge the gender gap in engineering:
Additionally, events like International Women in Engineering Day and Tomorrow’s Engineers Week play a vital role in showcasing female engineers and inspiring the next generation.
Women in engineering still face challenges such as the gender pay gap, outdated stereotypes, and a lack of flexible working arrangements. Closing the pay gap, which currently stands at around 11%, is vital to achieving equality.
Providing equal opportunities from an early age is also essential. Encouraging young girls to explore engineering through school programmes, role models, and hands-on experiences can inspire future generations to enter the profession.
As we look ahead, women are poised to shape the future of engineering in the UK. The industry is evolving, with advancements in areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and smart cities. Female engineers are already leading projects that address climate change, develop sustainable technologies, and improve urban living.
Promoting and retaining women in engineering will not only secure the future of the industry but also ensure it remains competitive on a global scale. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, the UK can harness the full potential of its talent pool, driving innovation and economic growth.
Women in engineering are vital to the future of the industry. While progress has been made, there is still work to do in overcoming barriers and encouraging more women to join – and remain in – the profession. By fostering diversity, celebrating achievements, and addressing challenges, the engineering sector can thrive, benefiting from the unique perspectives that women bring to the table.
At Western Building Consultants, we are committed to supporting diversity and inclusion within the engineering sector. Our multidisciplinary approach integrates architecture, engineering, and surveying services, providing comprehensive solutions for both residential and commercial projects. We offer services such as residential architecture, structural engineering, and building surveys, ensuring that all aspects of your project are managed with expertise and precision. By fostering an inclusive environment and promoting equal opportunities, we aim to contribute to a more diverse and innovative engineering industry.