#BEYOUROWNWONDERWOMAN – CELEBRATING ALL THE WOMEN IN THE STEM FIELD!
Happy Women in Engineering Day 2023!
Every year on June 23rd, people all over the world commemorate International Women in Engineering Day to recognize the contributions of women to engineering. Its main goal is to increase the visibility of the women who are transforming engineering one degree at a time.
When it comes to engineering, women are still incredibly underrepresented globally, and INWED provides them a profile.
40% of women have departed the engineering sector in the last several years. There are various things that contribute to this, such as being judged about going into a difficult major such as engineering or working in difficult workplace conditions. One in four women who enter the field of engineering after a certain age quit it, claims the Society of Women Engineers. Even though women are frequently underrepresented in engineering’s academic and professional disciplines, they have historically and now made significant contributions to a variety of engineering-related fields. We can agree to disagree that women are typically more vulnerable in male-dominated sectors, as they are usually less focused on diminishing toxic behaviors and creating inclusive environments. But this has never deterred women from participating in the engineering sector.
Women have played a crucial part in the design and construction of important structures and machinery for millennia. However, they have been mostly barred from careers in professions like engineering. Being brought up in a society where young girls are raised to only go for “softer”, “less complicated” careers. It’s important that as a woman, you do not let these voices and gender expectations dictate what you can and cannot do.
The presence of women engineers at Amotech Africa has been greatly felt and vital. Through their contributions, they help bring different perspectives into the company. Taking up higher roles in the fast-paced test and measurement sector: we have Njeri Gachanja, who’s not only our General Manager but also Head of Sales and our Service & Calibrations Engineer – Jane Omole. We strive to support women and women engineers and continue to create a level platform for them to contribute effectively towards the organization’s goals. Special mentions to the amazing wonder women that steer the company as departments heads: Murugi Wanjiru, who is the Human Resource and Safety Manager, Catherine Mwangi, in charge of Marketing and Communications and Mary Karungu, who is the Chief Accountant. These women in leadership help in providing direction and guidance in this male dominated sector and have proven to continue challenging the societal stereotypes.
It’s high time we appreciated and recognized women’s overall contributions in society and those that continue to break the glass ceiling in STEM careers. Just to mention a few ways on how we can empower and encourage our young girls is through: Mentorship, Networking and Training opportunities, advocacy, collaboration, and support.
A parting shot to the young girl or woman reading this:
“Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity. It’s your place in the world; it’s your life. Go on and do all you can with it and make it the life you want to live.” – Mae Jemison.
Remember to always be authentically you, be strong, stand up and have a voice. #beyourownwonderwoman #INWED23