National Women Engineers Day

A group of diverse women engineers wearing safety goggles, stylishly dressed, working together in a modern engineering laboratory.. — National women engineers day illustration

Did you know that every 23rd of June, we celebrate National Women Engineers Day? It's a day to honor and appreciate the incredible contributions that women have made to the field of engineering! So, grab your safety goggles and get ready for a fun and informative exploration of this special day.

When is Women Engineers Day?

It's national women engineers day on the 24th June.

The History of National Women Engineers Day

National Women Engineers Day, also known as NWED, was first celebrated on June 23, 2014. This day aims to acknowledge the achievements of women engineers and encourage more women to pursue careers in this male-dominated field.

Engineering has historically been considered a profession dominated by men. However, women have been breaking barriers and making their mark in engineering for centuries. From the brilliant minds behind the creation of the first computer to the women designing and building skyscrapers that touch the clouds, their contributions cannot be overstated.

On National Women Engineers Day, we recognize the ground-breaking work of women in engineering and inspire future generations of female engineers to dream big.

How to Celebrate

1. Spread the Word: Share inspiring stories of women engineers on social media using the hashtag #NWED and raise awareness about the fantastic women shaping our world.

2. Attend Events: Many organizations and universities host events on National Women Engineers Day. Attend seminars, virtual conferences, and workshops to learn more about the latest advancements in engineering and be inspired by remarkable women in the industry.

3. Mentorship and Support: If you're an engineer yourself, reach out to young girls and women who are interested in pursuing a career in engineering. Provide mentorship, guidance, and support to help them overcome any obstacles they may face along the way.

4. Discover Trailblazers: Take some time to research famous women engineers throughout history. Learn about their achievements and share their stories to inspire others.

A Fun Fact about Women Engineers

Did you know that the first documented female engineer is thought to be Tapputi-Belatekallim? She lived in Mesopotamia around 1200 BCE and was an expert in perfumery. Talk about combining science and art!

History behind the term 'Women Engineers'

1806

Invention of the term 'engineer'

The term 'engineer' was first coined by Scottish civil engineer Thomas Tredgold in his book 'The Principles of Warming and Ventilating Public Buildings.' It referred to individuals who applied scientific and mathematical principles to design and construct structures and machines.

1868

Elizabeth Bragg becomes the first woman engineer

Elizabeth Bragg earned the distinction of being the first woman to graduate with a degree in engineering in 1876 from the University of California, Berkeley. Her accomplishment paved the way for future generations of women to pursue careers in engineering.

1888

Invention of the term 'women engineers'

The term 'women engineers' gained popularity in the late 19th century to specifically refer to female individuals who pursued engineering professions. The term aimed to highlight the inclusion and recognition of women in a predominantly male-dominated field.

1919

Formation of the Society of Women Engineers

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) was founded in 1919 to support and promote women in engineering. It has played a significant role in advocating for gender equality, professional development, and networking opportunities for women engineers.

1942

Rosie the Riveter inspires women in engineering

During World War II, 'Rosie the Riveter' became a symbol of women's contribution to the war effort, including their involvement in manufacturing and engineering roles. This iconic image inspired many women to pursue careers in engineering and other traditionally male-dominated fields.

1964

Jeanette M. Wing becomes a prominent computer scientist

Jeanette M. Wing's achievements in computer science and engineering have significantly impacted the field. She has held influential positions in academia and industry, and her research has revolutionized areas like mobile computing and formal methods. Wing's success has motivated and inspired numerous women to enter and excel in the field of engineering.

1970

Equal Rights Amendment includes 'no denial of rights based on sex'

The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was proposed to the United States Constitution in 1972 with the aim of guaranteeing gender equality under the law. Although the ERA has not yet been ratified, it has played a crucial role in raising awareness about gender discrimination and supporting the rights of women, including women engineers.

1984

Grace Hopper receives the National Medal of Technology

Grace Hopper, a pioneer in computer programming, received the National Medal of Technology in 1984 for her significant contributions to the field. As one of the first women to attain a Ph.D. in mathematics, Hopper's groundbreaking work with computer programming languages paved the way for future generations of women engineers to excel in the field of computer science.

1997

First female engineer in space

Dr. Mae Jemison became the first female African-American astronaut when she joined the crew of the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992. Her remarkable achievements as an engineer, physician, and astronaut have highlighted the capabilities and contributions of women engineers in scientific exploration.

2020

Continued progress in gender diversity

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of gender diversity in engineering. Efforts to empower and support women engineers have led to increased representation, improved workplace environments, and initiatives promoting equality and inclusivity in the field. Women engineers continue to make significant contributions to technology, innovation, and society as a whole.