Baked beans and female engineers: two new Academy booklets promote diversity in engineering
07/04/2014
In celebration of National Science and Engineering Week, the Royal Academy of Engineering has released two free-to-download booklets, which promote diversity in engineering.How many engineers does it take to make a tin of baked beans? is the question posed on the cover of the first publication, which aims to encourage more young people from different backgrounds to consider a career in engineering. The booklet uses baked beans as a backdrop to highlight the range of engineering disciplines involved in making an item not usually associated with engineering. With profiles of 20 engineering role models from a range of backgrounds and routes into the profession, it also includes advice on becoming an engineer and useful links for further information.
A second publication, University Technical Colleges (UTC) – Opening up new opportunities for girls, provides practical advice on specific action UTCs can take to attract more girls. The publication has been produced for the Academy by Women in Science and Technology (WISE) with support from the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) and Women into Engineering and Technology (WiSET).
Philip Greenish CBE, Chief Executive of the Academy, said: “The UK needs many more people with skills in innovation, creativity and enterprise – skills that are fundamental to engineering and key to the UK’s competitive edge. University Technical Colleges are superbly positioned to reach out to young people from all backgrounds, male and female, and to bring to life the wonderful opportunities available from a career in engineering.”
Although primarily targeted at UTCs, the content of the publication also has far wider application. Any organisation wanting to engage more girls in engineering and technology will find a range of useful tips and advice.
Both booklets were circulated widely at the Big Bang Science and Engineering Fair, which took place on 13-16 March 2014 at The NEC, Birmingham. To download a PDF of the booklets visit the following links: http://www.wisecampaign.org.uk/about-us/our-projects/utc-booklet and http://www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk/inspire/
For hard copies of either booklet, email: diversity@raeng.org.uk
