Catriona Savage, Programme Lead - FSS, UK discusses how the importance of diversity in engineering cannot be overstated. A diverse workforce leads to better problem-solving, more innovative solutions, and a more inclusive society.
20 June 2024
Even with all the progress made in promoting diversity, engineering is still a male-dominated field. And worryingly, recent stats from Engineering UK show that the number of women in engineering in the UK has actually gone down for the first time.
In 2023:
Diversity in engineering isn’t just about fairness—it’s about better problem-solving, stronger teams, and creating solutions that work for everyone.
Engineering is all about innovation, and the more diverse the team, the better the ideas. My own path into engineering was shaped by personal interests and a supportive upbringing—something not everyone has access to.
Lack of diversity doesn’t just impact individuals; it affects society. Too often, products are designed with men in mind—think PPE that doesn’t fit women properly or car seatbelts that aren’t tested for female body types. Having a wider range of voices in the room leads to smarter, more inclusive design.
Plus, diverse teams have been shown to perform better, bringing different perspectives that improve decision-making and creativity.
We need to start young. Exposing kids to engineering early - before gender stereotypes kick in - can spark interest and help level the playing field. Schools, parents, the media, and community programs all have a role to play in making engineering more visible and appealing to everyone.
But it’s not just about getting more women into engineering—it’s about keeping them there. Workplaces need to actively support diversity through flexible working, equal opportunities, and leadership programs that give women the confidence to go for top roles.
I’ve seen progress in my 30-year career, but there’s still a long way to go. As the first female President of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA), I’ve noticed the mix of excitement and surprise that comes when a woman steps into a leadership role. That reaction alone shows how far we still have to go.
Having women in leadership matters - not just for the sake of numbers, but because representation inspires the next generation. If young girls and women see role models in engineering, they’ll know it’s a space where they belong.
Diversity in engineering isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential for progress. It leads to better innovation, stronger teams, and solutions that work for everyone.
The drop in women in engineering should be a wake-up call. We need to double down on early engagement, increase representation, and create inclusive workplaces to ensure engineering is a career option for all, no matter their gender.
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After graduating with a Bachelor of Science, I joined BMT. The diverse projects and global presence really appealed to me as well as the graduate programme on offer. This started with a structured set of modules focused on business and interpersonal skills before progressing to my area, which centred on reliability, obsolescence, safety, and environment. This focus later evolved into asset performance management (APM), where I’m still working today.
Sarah Kenny
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On National STEM Day 2024, we celebrate our ongoing commitment to inspiring the scientists, engineers, and innovators of tomorrow. By investing in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) outreach, we aim to shape a more innovative and inclusive future.
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Congratulations to Marine Engineering Apprentice Jordan Tyers on being awarded the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) 'Lady Hamlyn Award', which recognises apprentices who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to their professional development in the marine sector.