The engineering and manufacturing sector continues to grow, with increasing demand for skilled workers. However, research shows the number of women working in engineering and technology roles across the UK fell by 38,000 in 2023, highlighting the need to encourage more young women to consider careers in these industries.
To mark International Women’s Day, Calderdale College, in partnership with West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services, welcomed more than 60 Year 9 and 10 female pupils from local schools to The Engineering Centre campus in Brighouse. The event aimed to inspire the next generation of female engineers by giving pupils the opportunity to meet women working in STEM careers and explore the College’s industry-standard facilities.
Students from Bradford Academy, Rastrick High School, Rishworth School and Newsome Academy gained insight into the wide range of career opportunities within engineering and manufacturing.
They heard first-hand from industry professionals about their experiences of building successful careers in a traditionally male-dominated sector. On the panel were Hannah Wright, Founder of Cirkits, Amelia Knight, Value Stream Quality Engineer at Teconnex, Kristen Holley, Consultant & Trainer at the Clarity Framework, Annette Pygott, Digital Tutor at Calderdale College, Jen Harrison UK Sales Manager at John Winter and Aimee Dawson, Event Project Executive at STEM Racing.
As well as hearing from inspirational women in the industry, students were also given the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art facilities at the campus, take part in a virtual welding activity and hear more about pathways into digital roles.
Claire Williams, Head of Employer Engagement for Apprenticeships at Calderdale College, said: “It is vital that colleges like ours encourage more young women to consider careers in engineering and manufacturing, particularly at a time when female representation in the sector is declining.
“At Calderdale College, we are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion. By showcasing the variety of exciting opportunities available, we hope to inspire the next generation of young women to break down barriers and pursue rewarding careers in STEM.”
Calderdale College is committed to supporting the development of the next generation of skilled workers for key priority sectors across the region. Through its range of technical courses and apprenticeships, the College is helping to address skills shortages in engineering and manufacturing while supporting local economic growth.
Freya Taylor, Marketing & Communications Manager at West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services, said: “At West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services, we are passionate about helping young people discover the exciting opportunities available in STEM-based sectors, especially manufacturing and engineering. By using our network to help bring students together with women who are building successful careers in industries that have historically been male-dominated, we can help break down stereotypes and inspire the next generation of talent.”
Aimee Dawson added: “The need to encourage young women into STEM industries has never been more pronounced and it’s something we actively work to address at STEM Racing. Our competition has over 35% female participation, a figure that is continuously growing and we couldn’t be prouder or more inspired by the women we see taking part. They are truly impressive and remind us just how important it is to provide platforms like ours, giving them opportunities to shine and pursue STEM careers, particularly in fields like engineering. The industry will undoubtedly be a lot brighter with their involvement.”
The College’s bespoke i4.0 Hub, based at The Engineering Centre and developed in partnership with West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services and Textile Centre of Excellence, gives students and professionals the opportunity to develop up-to-date knowledge in cutting-edge technologies being adopted by businesses as part of the fourth industrial revolution.
Specialist workshops feature advanced technologies including robotics and automation, 3D scanning and printing, data generation, artificial intelligence and augmented reality.
Calderdale College offers a range of full-time and part-time courses and apprenticeships in engineering and manufacturing. To find out more, visit www.calderdale.ac.uk/TEC
Employers looking for support with business solutions, workforce development, training or funding can contact employers@calderdale.ac.uk to find out how Calderdale College can support their organisation.
