Breaking down working barriers for city women

PLYMOUTH is leading the way when it comes to breaking down barriers for women going into STEM careers based on science, technology, engineering and mathematics, industry leaders have said.

- By LORNA HUGHES

Devonport Dockyard operators Babcock International Group say women make up 19.5% of their work force, and 40% representation at board level and 30% in senior leadership roles, but has set a target of 30% female representation by 2030.

Meanwhile City College Plymouth say they are a key talent pipeline for the region's fast-growing tech, marine, digital and engineering sectors, across traditionally male-dominated industries.

Opened yesterday and continuing today, Plymouth hosted the Babcock Festival of Engineering, putting STEM careers centre stage. More than 400 pupils are expected to take part in the interactive festival across the two days, which are designed to ignite curiosity and ambition in young people, and especially girls. The 2025 theme, "Breaking Down Barriers", focuses on empowering women in engineering and creating inclusive pathways for disadvantaged groups.