Bridging the Gender Gap in Engineering: A Call for Change on International Women’s Day in the UK
As we approach International Women’s Day (08/03/25), we celebrate the progress made toward gender equality, but we also reflect on the work that remains. One area where the gender gap continues to persist is in engineering, a field that plays a crucial role in shaping our future. In the UK, the underrepresentation of women in engineering is a significant challenge that requires urgent attention.
Despite the vital contributions women make to the industry, the gender gap remains wide. As we celebrate the achievements of women in engineering, it’s time to acknowledge the barriers that still exist and consider the steps we need to take to ensure that women have equal opportunities to thrive in this field.
The Current State of the Gender Gap in Engineering in the UK
In 2025, while the UK’s gender gap in engineering has been narrowing, it remains stark. Women still represent only 16% of the engineering workforce, and the proportion is lower in specific sectors such as mechanical and civil engineering. These statistics are troubling, particularly when you consider that engineering is critical to the country’s economy, infrastructure, and efforts toward sustainability and technological progress.
However, the representation of women in engineering at the student level is also a concern. According to recent UCAS data, women account for approximately 20% of engineering students, which is a marginal increase over the past decade. Although this signals some progress, it remains far from the necessary level to ensure equal gender representation within the field.
Barriers Women Face in Engineering
Several persistent barriers continue to discourage women from pursuing and progressing in engineering careers in the UK, and while the situation is improving, challenges remain:
1. Societal Stereotypes: Engineering is still perceived as a male-dominated field, and girls are often steered away from pursuing it due to gender biases.
2. Gender Bias at Work: Women frequently encounter implicit bias and struggle with being overlooked or dismissed in the workplace, which hinders career progression.
3. Lack of Role Models and Mentorship: A shortage of female leaders in engineering leaves young women without sufficient mentorship and guidance.
4. Work-Life Balance: The demanding nature of engineering jobs, combined with family responsibilities, poses challenges for women to stay in the profession.
5. Pay Inequality: Women in engineering continue to earn less than their male counterparts, contributing to a wider gender pay gap.
Why Bridging the Gender Gap is Crucial
Bridging the gender gap in engineering is essential for the UK's economic growth, innovation, and global competitiveness. Diverse teams are more innovative, and increasing female representation in engineering will ensure better solutions to challenges like climate change, technological advancement, and sustainability. Additionally, women in engineering serve as role models for future generations of young girls considering similar careers.
Steps Toward Closing the Gender Gap
While progress has been made, there’s still much to do. Here are several ways to close the gender gap in engineering in the UK:
1. Early STEM Engagement: Programs like STEM Ambassadors and STEMettes can help inspire girls from a young age to pursue engineering.
2. Inclusive Workplaces: Engineering companies need to adopt policies promoting gender diversity, including equal pay, mentorship programs, and flexible working arrangements.
3. Mentorship and Leadership: Increasing mentorship opportunities and female representation in leadership roles will empower women to thrive in their careers.
4. Closing the Pay Gap: Companies must ensure equal pay for equal work and implement transparency in pay practices.
Conclusion: Celebrating Women Engineers and Committing to Action in 2025
On International Women’s Day 2025, let’s celebrate the incredible achievements of women engineers in the UK, but let’s also acknowledge the ongoing challenges they face. The gender gap in engineering is a complex issue, but it is one that we can solve through concerted efforts from education, industry, and government.
To secure the future of the UK
