The Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) is one of the world’s largest engineering institutions with over 168,000 members in 150 countries. It is also the most multidisciplinary – to reflect the increasingly diverse nature of engineering in the 21st century.

It aims to inspire the next generation of engineers and technicians, inform the wider engineering community and influence government and standards to advance society.

The IET Young Woman Engineer (YWE) of the Year Awards 

To celebrate Ada Lovelace Day, six young female engineers working on projects ranging from future combat jets and space planes to artificial intelligence were announced as finalists for the IET Young Woman Engineer (YWE) of the Year Awards.

These prestigious engineering industry awards celebrate women working in modern engineering – and aim to help change the perception that engineering is predominantly a career for men by banishing outdated engineering stereotypes of hard hats and dirty overalls.

As well as highlighting female engineering talent, The IET Young Woman Engineer of the Year Awards seek to find role models who can help address the UK science and engineering skills crisis by promoting engineering careers to more girls and women. 

“Engineering is a fantastic career – it’s diverse and exciting with the opportunity to do something life - or world - changing. But the lack of women in the sector is a huge problem," says Jo Foster, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at the IET.

“The difficulty in attracting women into engineering is down to a combination of things, including the image of engineers within the UK, careers advice girls are given in schools and the way that companies with engineering roles advertise their opportunities. It’s also a result of the lack of engineering role models for girls, which is why our Young Woman Engineer of the Year Awards are all about finding role models to get girls – and young people in general – excited and inspired about a career in engineering."

“I’d like to congratulate Kate, Shajida, Sophie, Amy, Lorna and Claire for making the final six and in helping to demonstrate the tremendous female engineering talent in our industry today," added Jo.

Participate in The IET's Women's Network

The IET's women's network provides support for women during their careers. It has a network on social media, career advice on the IET website, and mentoring opportunities. Find out more about The IET's focus on women.
 
 

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