The engineering industry is constantly evolving, along with becoming increasingly important in the modern world. And, there are so many reasons for women to consider getting involved in this exciting, ground-breaking field with a range of excellent career opportunities to choose from. Historically, engineering has often been seen as a male-dominated field, but this is definitely changing over time, with more women entering the field and many achieving great things. Here are some of the top reasons why more women are studying engineering and going to enjoy thriving careers in this industry.
Study Opportunities are More Accessible
For women, in particular, study opportunities to learn about engineering, achieve an engineering degree and break into the field have become much more accessible. Today, opportunities like engineering management and systems management degrees from Kettering University Online have made it easier for women who may have otherwise struggled to attend classes to get their degree in engineering and go on to pursue their career. Online degrees are ideal for women who:
Have family commitments that may add difficulty when attending traditional classes
Would struggle to afford the cost of a traditional college degree
Are studying while working full-time
Studying for your engineering degree online means that you have much more flexibility and freedom compared to a traditional degree, making it an ideal choice for women who have busy lives to lead and commitments to uphold.
Female Engineers are Sought After
Diversity and balance are what makes the workplace – and the world – a great place to be. And, since there are still more men in engineering, women are certainly sought after and valued in this industry, as they add diversity and balance out the ratio between the genders. As a trained engineer and also a woman, you will be appreciated in this industry not only for the skills that you bring to the table, but also for your perspectives and insights.
You Can Make a Difference in the World
Engineers work in a variety of different fields, using their problem-solving skills in order to provide solutions to some of the biggest issues in the world. As an engineer, you might be working on new technologies or structures that will help improve the way that we live. Engineers might:
• Create new medical devices for patients
• Come up with new ways of providing clean water to people who have no access
• Develop more efficient and sustainable ways of living or transportation
• Design buildings and structures that will improve communities
• As an engineer, the possibilities to do good with your work and help others are countless.
You’ll Be Well-Paid
Of course, the ability to have a career where you can do good and be respected by others is important, but for many people, earning a decent salary is also a key factor when deciding on their future career. Engineering not only offers women the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding, flourishing career, but the salary is highly desirable too. In fact, the average salary for an engineering graduate going into their first full-time employed role is higher than in many other professions, and there are plenty of opportunities to earn more as you gain more experience.
It’s a Creative Role
Engineering may be a highly scientific role in many aspects, but it also benefits from creativity. Studying and working in the engineering world will give you the chance to use your imagination and be creative and inventive. You will be spending your time designing, constructing and creating effective new technologies and products that provide solutions to real-life problems in a new way. And, as an engineer, you may often collaborate with professionals in other sectors and industries in order to produce work that is innovative and impactful.
There Are Many Career Options to Choose From
With the world continuing to rely on technology more than ever before, engineers are experiencing a new level of demand that is only set to grow. An engineering degree will equip you with a wide variety of skills that are essential in today’s day and age. As a result, you will be able to explore a huge variety of relevant roles and discover your dream job.
In addition, many women who work in the STEM industries find that there are many opportunities to organize working hours that suit you best, so a career as an engineer can also offer a great level of flexibility. With an engineering degree, some of the roles that you might be interested in include:
• Civil engineer
• Chemical engineer
• Mechanical engineer
• Aeronautical engineer
• Electrical engineer
• Engineering manager
• Engineering consultant
• IT consultant
• Quality manager
• Technical writer
Start Your Own Business
In addition to a wide range of employment opportunities that you will be able to enjoy as an engineering graduate, you will also have ample opportunities to start your own business, if being your own boss is a career idea that interests you.
With the relevant skills and experience in engineering, you can start a number of different business ideas, from companies that invent and create products for a certain industry, to engineering consultancy firms, engineering contractor firms, and many more. Starting your own business is becoming a popular choice among many experienced engineers who find themselves looking for more after spending some time in employment. There are several benefits to starting your own business as an engineer, including:
• You can find a gap in the market or a certain niche that is in need of more services, and come up with a business idea to provide fulfillment
• You can choose which projects you would like to take on, giving you more of a chance to follow your dreams and do what you have always wanted to do within the industry compared to working for an employer
• You can earn an unlimited amount of money
• You have more freedom and flexibility over your working hours and conditions
Engineering might not be the typical job for many women, but it’s certainly appealing to a larger female audience these days. And with some very interesting roles on offer, it’s easy to see why more women are breaking into engineering.
