An outdated image of interest in technology and that it is required to become an engineer can contribute to women and non-binary people choosing a different path. If we can get more people to realize that an engineer is a creative problem solver who works with people and technology to improve the world, it will likely lead to more people choosing to become engineers, says Madelen Porserud at CoGig.
CoGig, Pep and the foundation Womengineer today presents the results of a survey that mapped the interest in technology among women and non-binary people. The purpose of the report is to understand how they view technology, what attracts or discourages them from the engineering profession, and what personality traits contribute to thriving in the role of engineer.
A total of 453 people participated in the survey, including 294 prospective and current engineers. An analysis of the responses showed that interest in technology is not necessarily a determining factor for becoming an engineer. One in six working engineers state that they do not consider themselves interested in technology – something that challenges the prevailing view that the engineering profession and interest in technology are inseparable.
The report highlights the personality traits most commonly associated with an engineering profile: creativity, problem-solving, and a desire to improve the world. It turns out that these qualities are also common among people who have chosen other careers, suggesting that many more people could thrive in the role of engineer than are currently applying to the profession.
”There is a discrepancy between self-image and suitability for women and non-binary people when it comes to the engineering profession,” say representatives of CoGig, Pepp and Womengineer. ”Our hope is that this report will help change outdated images of the engineer and open up the profession to more people.”
To inspire future engineers, the report highlights the stories of three female engineers who share their journeys into the profession. Their testimonies show that there are many paths to becoming an engineer and that diversity in background and personality is a strength for the technology industry.
”By highlighting these issues, we hope to contribute to a more equal and inclusive technology sector, where everyone with the potential and interest has the chance to succeed,” says the report's author.
About CoGig, Pepp and Womengineer: CoGig, Pepp and the Womengineer Foundation work to increase diversity in the tech sector and inspire more women and non-binary people to choose technical education and careers. Through joint initiatives, networks and educational efforts, the organizations strive for a more inclusive future in technology.
Read the report here!
Contact:
Stiftelsen Womengineer, Marie Ideström, e-mail: marie@womengineer.org
CoGig, Madelen Porserud, email: madelen.porserud@cogig.se
Pepp, Julia Malmsten, email: julia.malmsten@blipepp.nu