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Engineering a Plan to Attract More Women
February 23, 2007
by Jessica Groach
Business Programs Columnist
Did you know that a woman named Emily Roebling supervised the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge? Or that GM Racing's Chevrolet program manager, in NASCAR's top racing series, is a Hispanic woman named Alba Colon?
Engineers may design efficient transportation systems, create new life-saving vaccines, or develop technologies that help us function day-to-day. Their work is vital, and is often handsomely rewarded -- starting salaries are around $35,000-$40,000 a year. Yet engineering schools around the country find that less than 10% of engineers and engineering faculty are women.
Why is this a concern? Because many of the products and processes that engineers create need the valuable input and attention to detail that women offer. As Andy Acho, director of environmental outreach and strategy for Ford Motor Company points out, "If you are going to design and sell a product, you need the different perspective women bring."
Engineering schools are getting creative about reaching out to females. Their methods include more team-oriented classroom activities, more real-life projects, and using currently enrolled females as part of recruitment efforts.
Two studies by the University of Michigan and the Women's Law Center say that girls need encouragement and support in math and science during high school, by teachers and parents. Providing information to girls about engineering in high school, and introducing them to female engineering role models early on is the best way to start. Girls showing interest in engineering in high school should learn that the curiosity, analytical thinking, and aptitude for technology involved in becoming an engineer can be applied to many fields, including medicine or even business. And the nature of the work lends itself easily to part-time or home-based work. Encouraging girls to pursue engineering doesn't just help them; it helps our world become a better place.
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About the Author
Jessica Groach is a freelance writer and writing instructor at the University of Nevada, Reno. She has seven years experience in media, advertising and public relations. Her work has appeared in various lifestyle and business publications, including a Warner Business Book.
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