Would you believe that only 10% of girls say their parents encourage them to pursue a career in engineering? It's true! Females pursuing engineering careers date back to the 1800’s. One of the first female engineers was Martha J. Coston. In 1859, Coston received a patent for her creation of the Pyrotechnic Night Signals which are still used by the U.S. Navy today. Though female engineers are still not common, much progress has been made, and we need to continue to encourage our girls to change the reputation of engineers.

Women in Engineering and Technology Week

Women in Engineering and Technology Week, March 5-7, is designed to educate and encourage young women to explore fields of engineering, while embracing those who have made an impact in the engineering fields. This week is dedicated specifically to young women that may have interest in an engineering career, and women who have shaped the face of engineering.

Southwire's Women in Engineering

One of Southwire’s very own female engineers, Erika Akins, stated that she would encourage young women to chase their dream of becoming an engineer, because “it is worth it, especially if they have a strong interest in math and science. The face of engineering is changing and diversifying, and they can be part of that.”

Yuhsin Hawig, another of our female engineers here at Southwire, stated that young girls need to be more open minded to the definition of engineering. She pointed out that there is more to engineering other than the basic scientific disciplines. Yuhsin gave examples such as environmental engineering, material sciences, even engineering in fashion.

Here at Southwire we proudly recognize our female engineers: Erika Akins, Allee Armstrong, Pat Bridges, Emmy Conner, Emily Goss, Yuhsin Hawig, Amy Murrah, and Kim Nuckles. Southwire thanks these ladies for working hard every day to overcome challenges in our industry.  So, March 5-7 be sure to encourage a young lady to follow her dreams of becoming an engineer while thanking a woman who has conquered her engineering dreams.