Engineer the Future: Celebrating Women in Engineering

International Women in Engineering Day, which will take place on June 23rd, is an annual celebration that honours the remarkable achievements of women in the field of engineering and aims to inspire the next generation of engineers. In this blog post, we'll explore key facts about women in engineering and offer exciting activity ideas to engage young minds.

Key Facts about Women in Engineering to share with your class:

1. Women have made significant contributions to engineering throughout history, despite facing gender biases and societal challenges.
2. Ada Lovelace, a mathematician in the 19th century, is considered the world's first computer programmer, as she wrote algorithms for Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine.
3. Hedy Lamarr, an actor and inventor, co-developed frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology, which paved the way for modern wireless communication.
4. Stephanie Kwolek invented Kevlar, a high-strength synthetic material used in bulletproof vests, helping to save countless lives.
5. Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, is also a trained engineer who has made significant contributions to biomedical research.

Activity Ideas:

1. Engineering Marvels: Invite the children to explore famous engineering achievements, such as the Eiffel Tower, Golden Gate Bridge or Burj Khalifa. Discuss the engineers involved and encourage the children to create their own miniature models using everyday materials.
2. Inventive Solutions: Challenge the children to identify a problem they encounter in their daily lives and brainstorm engineering solutions. Encourage creativity and critical thinking as they sketch, build prototypes and present their innovative ideas to the class.
3. Bridge Building: Teach the children about the different types of bridges and their engineering principles. Provide materials like straws, tape and lolly sticks and let them design and build their own bridges. Test the strength of their structures by placing small objects on top.
4. Role Models in Engineering: Introduce the students to inspiring women engineers through stories, videos or virtual interviews. Encourage discussions about their accomplishments and the challenges they overcame. This can help students develop a growth mindset and broaden their career aspirations.

International Women in Engineering Day is a fantastic occasion to celebrate the achievements of women in engineering and ignite a passion for STEM subjects among your class. By incorporating these key facts, linking to the curriculum and implementing engaging activities, you can empower young minds and pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in engineering. Let's inspire the engineers of tomorrow, regardless of gender, and encourage them to dream big!