Why are only 20% of UK engineers women, and what can we do to fix it?
Earlier this month, NMITE hosted a crucial gathering of engineers, students, and educators from across Europe to tackle this question head-on. By abandoning the typical conference format, we created a space for new voices—especially younger women in STEM—to shape the future of gender equity.
The event was INWES Europe x NMITE Unconference at our Skylon Campus.
Following the event, we spoke with Sarah Peers, Associate Professor at NMITE and a long-standing leader within the International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists (INWES), to reflect on the organisation’s mission and the key outcomes of this dynamic European gathering.
What is INWES? The International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists
A Global Network for Systemic Change
INWES is a truly worldwide organisation, formally established in 2002 with origins stretching back to 1964. Supported by UNESCO and aligned with United Nations' aims, it now links networks from around 50 countries.
- Who it Represents: Women in science, engineering, and technology across universities, industry bodies, professional groups, and national associations.
- The Mission: INWES exists because gender equity in STEM is still unfinished business.
- The Challenge: Globally, only about 30% of researchers are women. In UK engineering specifically, participation remains closer to 20%.
What was INWES Europe X NMITE about?
The event was run as an Unconference —a participant-driven structure where attendees set the agenda around important topics for women in engineering.
- Speakers launched the sessions with challenges directed at the group.
- Delegates from across Europe, including a strong NMITE student cohort, collaborated in round tables.
- The goal was to surface the issues that matter most, resulting in a grounded, real-world reality check that will shape future efforts.
Crucially, the unconference emphasised the need to amplify younger voices. As Sarah noted, meaningful future change requires fresh perspectives, new approaches, and the active involvement of early-career engineers and students.
Key Themes Emerging from the Discussions
The round table discussions generated three core themes that will guide INWES Europe’s future strategy:
1. Leadership Pathways for Women Engineers
Participants shared the challenges they face stepping into or aspiring to leadership roles. The group emphasised the need for:
- Clearer progression routes within organisations.
- Mentorship from senior women in engineering.
- Leadership development opportunities tailored for early-career professionals.
2. Building Confidence Through Community
A recurring idea was that confidence is a collective resource. Connecting with peers, mentors, and role models helps women in engineering grow their confidence, increasing the likelihood they will stay and thrive in the sector.
3. The Role of Institutions and Employers
The group highlighted what organisations can do to retain women in STEM, calling for:
- Inclusive recruitment and flexible working practices.
- More transparency and accountability in tackling gender imbalances.
- Increased collaboration with networks like INWES.
Looking Ahead: From Conversations to Action
The Unconference marked INWES Europe’s first in-person event hosted in the UK, signalling new momentum. The insights gained from our students and other young engineers are shaping future activities.
INWES Europe will continue building on this momentum, expanding opportunities for:
- Early-career leadership development.
- European-wide collaboration and project funding.
- Mentorship for young women engineers, including student chapters.
- Advocacy initiatives grounded in real lived experiences.
NMITE’s Commitment
NMITE is proud to be an organisational member of INWES. Hosting the event aligned with our mission to widen participation in engineering education and inspire the next generation of diverse talent.
As Sarah Peers reminded us:
“If we’re going to make the world a better place… we need science and engineering, and we need everybody around the table.”
We couldn’t agree more.
Find out more about INWES here
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