News analysis: Engineering for equality

Whilst there is no shortage of conversations about diversity taking place across engineering, industry can make no secret of the gender imbalance still recognised across its sectors. In March 2021, The Engineer’s annual salary survey revealed some sobering figures: female engineers accounted for just 6.3 per cent of respondents, and were still earning lower average salaries than their male associates.

Many companies are stepping up efforts in diversity and inclusion, working toward the ambition of achieving an equal workplace — but it’s clear that the profession is not getting there fast enough, so what’s the hold up?

There are many factors at play, but research shows a societal issue rooted in a lack of education and awareness around engineering as a career path for girls at a young age. Specifically, this occurs around the age of ten, according to a study from researcher Ulrika Sultan at Sweden’s Linköping University.