‘Women are still under-represented in engineering profession’

Women Engineers. Photo:freepik.com

The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has raised the alarm about the under-representation of women in engineering.

The guest lecturer, Mrs Regina Joshua, who spoke on: ‘Empowering Women in Engineering: Pioneering Paths, Breaking Barriers’ at the inauguration ceremony of Mrs Kubiatobong Uduak as the Chairman, APWEN lkot Ekpene chapter, called for initiatives that increase the number of women in the field.

A study by Deloitte revealed that women make up less than 35 per cent in engineering and technology-related fields. “Therefore, it is time to explore what can be done to empower women to advance in their engineering and technology careers,” she said.

Joshua harped on the need to use role models and mentors to get women of all ages to enroll in an engineering field and reduce gender stereotypes, as well as inspire women to engage in the sector. The lack of role models, she said reinforces the perception of a sector that does not provide a career path for women.

She noted that the engineering industry is constantly evolving, adding that it is important to stay informed, learn and adapt to new technologies, as well as methodologies. She observed that education initiatives and targeted training programmes create pathways for women to advance in their careers.

“One way to overcome the challenges faced by women in engineering is to stand up for yourselves, speak up and find allies, educate yourself and others to raise awareness. The female engineers must relearn and re-skill through forums like Schlumberger faculty for future programme as there is no age limit, adding that the Cartier women’s initiative awards and organise outreach programmes for the younger generation,” Joshua said.

She also advised women engineers to gain experience through internships or industrial training, which contributes to hands-on experience and demonstrates commitment to potential employers.

According to her, skills like communication, teamwork, and adaptability are also important. She encouraged them to develop and highlight capacities that demonstrate how they can contribute to successful project outcomes.

“Women have to strike the right balance between professional and personal life. The backbone of achieving balance is time management. Work pressures are a big issue. Male engineers can spend more time at work, whereas females feel a need to focus on their families since women often shoulder a disproportionate burden of caregiving duties, “she noted.

Joshua said women’s inability to believe that their success is deserved can be a barrier, especially in a male-dominated engineering field.

She stated the need to address the issue both personally and within the workplace so that others can feel confident in their efforts and skills.

In her speech, the new Chairman, Mrs Kubiatobong Uduak, who used the occasion to launch a scholarship scheme, pledged to uplift the association through innovative ideas, partnership with relevant stakeholders and boost the interest of the girl-child in engineering fields.

Addressing the forum, APWEN President, Dr Adebisi Osim, urged female engineers to inspire the next generation of female engineers. She disclosed that APWEN has been at the forefront of championing the cause of women in engineering and providing the support and resources they need to thrive.

Osim said the launch of the scholarship scheme is a significant step towards empowering the next generation of female engineers and ensuring that their dreams and aspirations are not hindered by financial constraints.

She said: “Let us be the role models they need to see, the mentors they can turn to, and the champions who will lift them and help them reach new heights. Let us be the ones who pave the way for a future where gender is no longer a barrier, but strength – a future where women in engineering are the norm, not the exception.”