National Woman In Engineering Day

A group of diverse women engineers, wearing safety helmets and colorful uniforms, working together on a futuristic cityscape background.. — National woman in engineering day illustration

Hey there, engineering enthusiasts! Prepare to be amazed as we dive into the fascinating world of National Woman in Engineering Day. This special day celebrates the incredible contributions of women in the field of engineering. So put on your thinking caps and prepare for a riveting read!

When is Woman In Engineering Day?

It's national woman in engineering day on the 23rd June.

What is National Woman in Engineering Day?

National Woman in Engineering Day, also known as NWED, is observed annually on June 23rd. It's a day dedicated to celebrating the achievements and successes of women in the field of engineering. From civil engineering to aerospace, women have made significant contributions that have shaped our world.

Started in 2014 by the Women's Engineering Society (WES), National Woman in Engineering Day aims to inspire and encourage more women to pursue careers in engineering. By highlighting the accomplishments of women in this male-dominated industry, NWED aims to break stereotypes and shatter glass ceilings.

Throughout history, women have played vital roles in engineering feats, from Ada Lovelace, the world's first computer programmer, to Hedy Lamarr, the actress and inventor who developed frequency-hopping technology that served as a foundation for wireless communication. National Woman in Engineering Day celebrates these remarkable women and many others.

Why Is National Woman in Engineering Day Important?

National Woman in Engineering Day is important because it raises awareness about the lack of gender diversity in engineering. Despite progress being made, there's still a significant gender gap in the field. This day serves as a reminder that women have the talent, skill, and creativity to excel in engineering.

By showcasing the achievements of female engineers, NWED inspires young girls to explore their interests in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. It's a day to inspire the next generation of female engineers and encourage them to pursue their passion.

Moreover, National Woman in Engineering Day sparks conversations about the challenges faced by women in engineering. It promotes inclusivity and encourages companies and organizations to create a more equitable workplace. By supporting women in engineering, we can tap into a diverse range of perspectives and drive innovation forward.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the first recorded female engineer was Elizabeth Bragg? In 1876, she became the first woman to earn a degree in engineering, graduating from the University of California, Berkeley. Talk about breaking barriers!

History behind the term 'Woman In Engineering'

1872

The Gradual Entry

In 1872, a significant milestone in the history of women in engineering was achieved when Ellen Swallow Richards became the first woman to graduate with a degree in chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). While her degree was in chemistry, Richards' relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge and her subsequent groundbreaking career paved the way for women to enter the field of engineering.

1890

The Emergence of Women Engineers

By 1890, the term 'woman in engineering' began to gain recognition as more and more women ventured into the field. Lillian Gilbreth, an industrial engineer and management consultant, made notable contributions during this period. She became the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in psychology and was a pioneer in the application of psychology to engineering, focusing on workplace efficiency, motion study, and human resources. Gilbreth's achievements opened doors for future generations of women engineers.

1921

Formation of the Society of Women Engineers

In 1921, the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) was founded to provide a supportive community and advocate for women in engineering. The organization aimed to promote the professional, educational, and social advancement of women in engineering and related sciences. SWE played a crucial role in empowering women engineers by breaking down barriers, promoting gender equality, and fostering networking opportunities among female professionals in the field.

1969

The First Female President of a Major Engineering Society

The year 1969 marked an important milestone when Dr. Emily H. Stowe became the first woman to serve as president of a major engineering society. Dr. Stowe was elected as the president of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and played a significant role in promoting gender diversity within the engineering profession. Her appointment as president generated momentum for greater inclusion and recognition of women in engineering organizations.

1984

The Glass Ceiling Shattered

In 1984, Dr. Linda Katehi shattered the glass ceiling by becoming the first woman to be granted tenure in the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). This historic achievement not only highlighted the exceptional contributions of women in engineering but also demonstrated the need for gender parity and equal recognition within academia.

2019

Continuing Progress and Recognition

In recent years, the term 'woman in engineering' has gained global recognition, and efforts to promote gender diversity in the field have accelerated. Today, numerous organizations, initiatives, mentorship programs, and scholarships specifically focus on supporting women pursuing engineering careers. The goal is to encourage young girls and women to embrace the field of engineering, address gender disparities, and celebrate the achievements of women engineers around the world.