STG Aerospace supports International Women in Engineering Day

International Women in Engineering Day, which took place on the 23rd June, was established by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) as an annual event designed to focus attention on the outstanding achievements being made by women in engineering and technical roles. The initiative features the Daily Telegraph’s Top 50 Women in Engineering, launched in 2016 in partnership with WES, to celebrate women’s achievements in the industry. 

In her STG Aerospace interview, Rhian (right) said: “Great work has been done to improve the channels for women to go into engineering but more needs to be done at a young age to ensure that women know it is a viable option for them.”

"I am a Design Engineer assigned to the Innovation Department at STG Aerospace. I’m lucky enough to work on research and development projects across all of STG Aerospace’s product ranges; LED lighting and photoluminescent technologies. My role is encompassing, and involves all aspects of concept generation, product development as well as testing and validating new and innovative lighting products for aircraft cabins.

"I think it is important to make young women understand that Engineering covers a diverse range of jobs and is applicable to many industries. My role for example isn’t a typical engineering role. When most people think of an engineering job they think of mechanisms and electronics, physical products. They don't understand that there are a wide range of engineering positions based all over the world.

"Growing up I showed a variety of interests based both in the Sciences and the Arts. As I moved through school I was encouraged, both by my teachers and my parents, to focus on the Sciences. At GCSEs I chose to take Systems and Controls, a course run by the Design and Technology Department. I went through comprehensive school believing I would be a Materials Engineer, like my Father.

"Engineering needs to be promoted more in schools so that students understand the different strands and see it as a viable option for them. Currently decisions you make at 16 years old heavily influence what you go on to do in the future due to the way our education system works. Young women should be raised knowing they can choose to go into any industry they wish.

When asked what advice she would give to young women thinking about a career in engineering, Rhian said: "Go for it. The opportunities I have been given through my degree and work positions have been imperative to my Career development and subsequently led me to my current position. There is a real shortage of engineers in Britain, so it’s the perfect time to get into the industry, especially given the continuous developments and advancements in technology, there is always something new to learn about, regardless of the sector."