Why Northern Ireland needs more girls to get into engineering

By Laura Duggan, Engineers Ireland Northern Region committee member

Engineers Week 2025 is just next week and a wonderful opportunity to ignite curiosity, challenge perceptions, and inspire the next generation of engineers across Northern Ireland. Now in its second year, we’re engaging hundreds of young people in hands-on experiences that highlight the creativity, problem-solving, and real-world impact of engineering. However, we know that one challenge remains – not enough girls are choosing engineering as a career.

With International Women’s Day taking place on Saturday 8th March, Engineers Week 2025 provides the perfect platform to showcase why engineering needs more female voices and how we can create a future where young women feel empowered to step into these roles.

Engineering and technology shape our world, from the infrastructure we rely on to the innovations that drive progress. Yet, women remain significantly underrepresented in these fields. In the UK and Ireland, women make up less than 15% of the engineering workforce. This isn’t because girls lack the talent or ability – it’s because outdated perceptions still persist about who “belongs” in engineering.

From a young age, many girls are not encouraged to explore engineering careers in the same way boys are. A lack of visible female role models, misconceptions about engineering being “too technical” or “not creative enough” and limited exposure to hands-on STEM experiences all contribute to this imbalance.

One of the most effective ways to inspire young girls is by introducing them to women who are leading the way in engineering. That’s why we are delighted to have Fig O’Reilly join us during Engineers Week 2025. As an engineer, innovator, and advocate for STEM diversity, Fig is an inspiring example of what’s possible when barriers are broken down.

Hearing directly from successful women in engineering can be transformative for young girls. It allows them to see themselves in these careers and realise that engineering isn’t just about hard hats and construction sites – it’s about innovation, creativity, and making a difference.

During Engineers Week 2025, we aim to bridge the gap (sometimes literally!) by giving students real-world, hands-on experiences that allow them to engage with engineering in a meaningful way. From LEGO Education workshops and site visits to The Big Bridge challenge and interactive sessions, students will be able to see engineering in action and understand its real-world impact.

We know that early exposure is key. Studies show that girls who take part in STEM activities from a young age are far more likely to pursue these subjects later. That’s why we must continue to create opportunities that spark interest, build confidence, and challenge outdated stereotypes.

Diverse teams create better solutions. When we encourage more girls into engineering, we bring new perspectives, fresh ideas, and different ways of thinking into the industry. The challenges we face like climate change, digital transformation, sustainable infrastructure all require the best talent from every background.

We all have a role to play in closing the gender gap. Teachers, parents, businesses, and industry leaders must work together to ensure that every young girl knows that engineering is a career for her. As we celebrate Engineers Week 2025 and International Women’s Day, we’re championing the future of female engineers and creating an industry where talent, not gender, defines success.