Women in Engineering

Where can engineering take you?

Engineers work on some of today's most pressing industrial, medical and environmental challenges, providing solutions through the practical application of science. Their intricate understanding of advanced technology and design enables engineers to work across an extraordinary range of areas, from biomedical research to new mobile phone technology to renewable energies.

Why should more women choose engineering?

Women are encouraged to study engineering and join the industry. The engineering profession in Australia has traditionally attracted few women, with females comprising only 6% of currently practicing professional engineers and 15% of enrolments in engineering degree courses nationally.

The engineering industry is keen to attract more women. Starting salaries, competition amongst employers to attract and retain female staff and broader university courses mean women have far greater choice and better options than ever before.

By increasing the number of women in engineering, we can create greater diversity among teams of engineers. Diversity is a critical element to problem solving, an important engineering skill and a key factor in most engineering projects.

Women bring creative flair, passion and leadership skills. They offer different styles of thinking that is valued by employers. The engineering profession and the Australian community will benefit from talented women joining engineering. We encourage you to pursue the links on this website and to consider how your talents as an engineer could provide benefit to the world around you. 

Fields that value engineering skills

Many talented engineering graduates take their skills to sectors that value an engineering background and strong project management skills. Sectors that employ engineering graduates include:

Within each of these areas, there is an extraordinary diversity of career opportunities.