Women continue to reshape the engineering sector

THE engineering sector has historically been a male-dominated field, and to a large extent, it still is. However, this is changing, and the shift is gaining significant momentum as more women begin to take up leadership roles, spearheading innovation and driving inclusive growth.

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These women are reshaping the industry, driving innovation and change, and Women’s Month is an ideal moment to reflect on how far we have come, while recognising how far we still must go in ensuring equity, diversity and inclusivity.

Stepping up to change the industry

In recent years, the number of women studying engineering in South Africa has grown significantly across disciplines, including mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering.

This shows a promising pipeline of female engineers who will be entering the workforce in the future. Just as promising is the growing presence of women in senior roles within the engineering space.

While there is still a long way to go to reach gender parity in leadership, companies are starting to take representation more seriously.

Government strategies have helped push this agenda forward, compelling organisations to build more inclusive workforces.

However, it is the drive of women to succeed that is seeing them excel in this space. These visible examples are important - when young women see someone like them succeeding in a traditionally male space, they begin to believe it is possible for them too, which helps the movement to gather momentum.

Difference drives success in business