Friday 23 June 2023 was International Day of Women in Engineering. Diversity makes engineering stronger, more creative and more responsive to a rapidly changing world. Here is what Monash University experts had to say on the importance of more women in Engineering.
Professor Yiannis Ventikos, Dean, Faculty of Engineering. Monash University:
“Engineering educators and those in engineering leadership positions around the world all know about the amazing success stories of women making their mark through engineering in all kinds of sectors, industry, academia, or in government.
“Celebrating International Women in Engineering Day, we are reminded that we must continue to build on the representation of women in our profession.
“Engineering can lead to rich and fulfilling careers for women who can and do, become very successful. Often reaching the very top of the profession and having a real impact not only to the field of Engineering but to society as a whole.
“At the same time, we are very aware of the chronic problem of women under-representation. We also happen to have a chronic, and now very pressing, shortage of engineers in practically all sectors.
“I am encouraged that at Monash, we have many examples where this representation is much better, approaching parity, like our Pink Nova Rover Student Team, High Powered Rocket and Formula 1 student teams where strong presence and leadership by young women engineers highlights to the world that engineering is for everyone, engineering needs everyone, engineering benefits everyone.
“Diversity makes engineering stronger, more creative and more responsive to the most pressing needs of diverse communities and industries in a rapidly changing world.”
Dr Elahe Abdi, Lecturer, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Superstar of STEM, 2023-2024
Dr Abdi is the Director of Robotics in Medicine and Interaction Laboratory and the Robotics Education Liaison Representative at the Australian Robotics and Automation Association.
“I believe, ‘You can’t be what you can’t see’. So one way to attract more women to engineering, is to increase the visibility of those who are already active in this field.
“A diverse representation in engineering R&D is essential to ensure the products/outcomes meet the needs of all the end users.”
Professor Nicoleta Maynard, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Director of Engineering Education – Faculty of Engineering
“In order to pursue careers in engineering, women must overcome cultural obstacles that exist within educational institutions and familial settings. Once they break these barriers, they can build strong bridges to a future where technology knows no gender.”
Chloe Chang, Engineering student, Co-CEO of Monash Nova Rover team
“I love engineering because it is where you learn how to turn any idea into a reality – there is always the opportunity to learn and challenge myself creatively and technically. The field is incredibly diverse, offering a wide range of opportunities and I believe there is something for everyone. My experience of engineering has been a glamorous self-discovery of my strengths and abilities, as well as finding my passion for space robotics.”
Dr Faezeh Marzbanrad, Lecturer, Researcher, Department of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering
“Promoting greater representation of women in engineering is pivotal for integrating their unique perspectives and needs into solution design. By embracing diverse voices and experiences, we empower engineering to serve and uplift all individuals, transcending longstanding barriers to gender-inclusive innovation.”
