School of PE Blog

Engineering is the driving force behind the advancements that shape our world. Increasingly, women are at the forefront of this innovation, bringing invaluable perspectives and innovations to the table. With March being Women’s History Month, we wanted this blog post to celebrate the achievements of women in engineering, highlight their inspiring stories, and explore the pathways to success for aspiring female engineers.

Women engineers have been pioneers, pushing boundaries and defying stereotypes. From the pioneering work of Emily Roebling, who played a crucial role in the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, to the modern-day achievements of women leading groundbreaking research in fields like biomedical engineering and sustainable technologies, their contributions are undeniable.

One inspiring example is Dr. Ayanna Howard, a renowned roboticist and educator. Her work in developing assistive robots for children with disabilities showcases the power of engineering to create a positive social impact. Dr. Howard's journey highlights the importance of mentorship and perseverance in overcoming challenges (Howard, n.d.).

Another remarkable figure is Reshma Saujani, the founder of Girls Who Code. Her organization is dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology by providing coding education and mentorship to young women. Saujani's advocacy emphasizes the need to empower girls early on and create a supportive ecosystem for women in STEM (Saujani, 2016).

These stories are not exceptions but rather part of a growing narrative. Women are excelling in diverse engineering disciplines, from civil and mechanical to electrical and software. Their presence is not only enriching the field but also driving innovation and fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

For aspiring female engineers, the journey may present unique challenges. However, there are clear pathways to success, supported by a growing network of resources and initiatives.

The presence of women in engineering is not just a matter of equity; it's also a matter of innovation. Diverse teams bring a wider range of perspectives and problem-solving approaches, leading to more creative and effective solutions.

Studies have shown that companies with diverse leadership teams perform better financially and are more innovative (Hunt et al., 2015). By fostering a culture of inclusion and supporting women in engineering, organizations can unlock their full potential and drive progress.

The future of engineering is bright, with women playing a pivotal role in shaping it. As more women enter the field, they are challenging traditional norms, driving innovation, and creating a more inclusive and equitable profession.

By sharing inspiring stories, providing mentorship, and creating supportive environments, we can empower the next generation of female engineers to achieve their full potential.

At School of PE, we recognize the immense value women bring to the engineering profession. We're committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment where every aspiring engineer feels empowered to succeed.

Howard, A. (n.d.). Ayanna Howard. Retrieved from https://www.ayannahoward.com/

Hunt, V., Layton, D., & Prince, S. (2015). Why diversity matters. McKinsey & Company.

Saujani, R. (2016). Girls who code: Learn to code and change the world. Viking.

Society of Women Engineers (SWE). (n.d.). Society of Women Engineers. Retrieved from https://swe.org/