Why inspiring diversity in engineering is a responsibility & an opportunity

Yewande Akinola is an engineer and innovator; she has worked on projects worldwide and is currently an EMEA Technical Director with CBRE Global Workplace Solutions.

Yewande is a passionate advocate for diversity in STEM and has received numerous accolades, including an MBE for services to engineering, innovation and diversity. She is an ambassador for the Department for Education’s Teach in Further Education campaign, which aims to call on those with industry experience to teach in FE by sharing their skills and training the next generation of workers in their field.

Currently, 85% of the UK engineering workforce is male, but the tides are changing.

As we move towards a more inclusive society, it is crucial for all engineering professionals – men and women – to take an active role in inspiring diversity within the industry. This responsibility sits with all of us; it is about enriching the field with varied perspectives, fostering innovation, and ensuring that the next generation of engineers is as diverse as the world they will help shape.

Why Engineering Professionals Have a Responsibility to Inspire Diversity

Fostering greater diversity across the industry is crucial. Without it, organisations face narrowed perspectives and limited innovation. Different backgrounds and experiences bring unique problem-solving approaches, leading to better designs, more inclusive products, and a stronger industry overall. When we have diverse teams, we have diverse ideas. Think about it: how can we design technology for everyone if the people designing it doesn’t represent everyone?

Engineering professionals hold a unique position of influence and responsibility. They are the architects of the future, designing solutions that impact every aspect of our lives. With this influence comes the responsibility to ensure that the field is inclusive and representative of the society it serves.

How can engineering industry professionals share their skills in further education

I’ve recently been supporting the Department of Education’s Teach in Further Education (FE) campaign which aims to inspire industry professionals to share their skills and experience with learners, to ensure they are equipped with the skills they need to succeed in their careers. FE is education for learners aged 16 and over who aren’t in school or studying for a degree. In settings such as colleges, FE offers diverse teaching opportunities across a range of technical, vocational and academic subjects to help prepare learners for work in their chosen field.

Teaching in FE is an effective way for engineers to share their expertise and to pass on their legacy and trade, making a positive impact on students’ lives, their own lives, and wider society.

Industry professionals can have a profound impact when they pass on their skills and experiences with others. Their presence and contributions can provide students with real-world insights and practical knowledge, ensuring that the education they receive is relevant and applicable to their future careers in engineering. This hands-on approach to learning not only enhances their understanding of engineering but also prepares them for the challenges they will face in their careers.

Our real-world industry skills are more valuable than we realise, and by sharing them, we can help shape the future of our industry’s workforce. By teaching in FE, we can directly influence the next generation of engineers, providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the industry.

Teaching in FE also allows female professionals to serve as role models, demonstrating that women can excel in engineering and hold positions of authority and expertise. You could be teaching one of many engineering subjects such as computer science, data analysis or electrical/structural engineering. You also don’t always need prior teaching qualifications to start teaching in FE. You can undertake training on the job which is often funded by your employer. This means you start earning straight away!

The Importance of Diverse Role Models in Inspiring Gen Z to Join the Sector

Research by FDM Group showed that 83% of Gen Z candidates consider an organisation’s commitment to diversity and inclusion as a significant factor. For this generation, seeing diverse role models in engineering is crucial in convincing them to pursue a career in the sector. Role models serve as tangible proof that success is attainable, regardless of one’s background or identity.

Diverse role models in engineering can inspire Gen Z by demonstrating that the field is open to everyone. When individuals see individuals who look like them and share similar experiences thriving in engineering, they are more likely to envision themselves in similar roles. This representation can help dismantle stereotypes and challenge the notion that engineering is a male-dominated field.

Moreover, diverse role models can provide mentorship and guidance, helping people navigate the challenges of entering and succeeding in the engineering sector. By sharing their journey, these role models can offer valuable insights and encouragement, making the path to a career in engineering more accessible and less daunting for Gen Z.

Take the next step

Engineering professionals have a role to play in fostering diversity within the field. By championing inclusivity and representation, they can not only drive innovation but also help shape a more impactful engineering sector. Diverse role models are key in shaping the future talent pipeline, and these collective efforts contribute to a more inclusive engineering community, ensuring that the sector is equipped to meet the challenges of the future.

Inspiring the next generation of engineers by teaching in FE can have a positive impact on learners’ lives and enable engineers to take on a new challenge without changing their career. If you’re interested in finding out more, visit the Teach in FE website.