Hundreds of aspiring female engineers attend inspiring event in Limerick
EXPLORE Engineering welcomed over 350 aspiring female engineers to the Millennium Theatre, TUS, in Limerick for their annual Inspire Women in Engineering event.
Guest speakers included: Rahima Ahmed (Rogerson Reddan), Barbara MacCarthy (Johnson & Johnson) and Aoife Prendergast (Analog Devices).
These speakers gave powerful testimonies to their varied routes to engineering, which included Youthreach, Engineering qualifications and a Business degree.
The speakers demystified the myth that only those with Honours Maths can pursue careers in STEM and Engineering. A panel discussion was chaired by Dr Carol Wrenn (TUS) and included Elisabeth O’Brien (TUS), Finola Deavy (TUS), Vanessa Egan (UL) and Daire Davern (Engineering student, UL).
Over 13 schools throughout the Mid West attended the event, accompanied by Guidance Counsellors and Engineering teachers. The students were welcomed by Dr Maria Kyne, Head of Faculty of Engineering, TUS.
Prof. Ann Ledwith, Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies, UL and chairperson of Explore Engineering gave the opening address, whereby she encouraged young women present to look at career options in STEM and more specifically, the variety of pathways to Engineering careers.
“To date 23% of Engineering graduates are female, which is an increase of 7% since 2016, and we need to continue this upward trajectory," she said.
The event concluded with a question and answer session, covering topics such as subject choice at school, gender pay gap, travel, and salaries.
The students were reminded that the Explore Engineering Showcase will take place in Shannon Airport on March, 5 – 9pm. This event is interactive showcase is open to all students and their families.