International Women in Engineering Day #INWED17 is an annual event that takes place on 23rd June this year. The day focuses attention on the amazing careers in engineering and technical roles for young women, and allows the celebration of the achievements of outstanding women engineers.
A key part of the day is the release of the Top 50 women in engineering list, sponsored by the Daily Telegraph. This list helps to raise awareness of the skills shortage facing the industry and the huge discrepancy between men and women in engineering professions. The aim is to change perceptions and encourage young women to consider engineering as a viable and rewarding career.
As we focus on driving diversity in engineering and supporting our goal to encourage the next generation of engineers, Heber News asked Heber’s Graciela Delgardo to talk to us about what attracted her to start her career in engineering and how we can encourage more young women into this amazing career. Graciela originates from Tenerife, Spain and has pursued her career to the UK joining Heber as an Engineer in 2015.
Heber News (HN):
What originally attracted you to study engineering and pursue a career in this field?
Graciela Delgado (GD):
As a child I was always very curious about how everything worked and at the same time, found maths very entertaining. Solving math problems was like a game. When, eventually I had to choose a path, I thought that pure mathematics was too abstract for me and decided to go for something more practical.
HN:
Why was engineering a good career choice for you?
GD:
Because I never get bored! I like the fact that there is always something to learn. It is very stimulating being challenged with new problems to solve.
HN:
What would your message be for girls who are considering a career in this area?
GD:
Go for it! Don’t let any prejudice push you back.
HN:
What do you think the industry could do to encourage more girls into engineering?
GD:
Give more visibility to the women that are already working as engineers. Girls need to know that women are in engineering roles already. I found a manufacturer website recently with no photos of women in any of their pages. That doesn’t help.
HN:
Which woman engineer has inspired you and why?
GD:
The first time I heard about Hedy Lamarr I was impressed. She was a famous Hollywood actress but patented an idea which became the basis for secure military communications and mobile phone technology during World War II! Not a typical engineer but a real inspiration to us all!