EngineerHer

We’ve spoken about mentors, but now we need to have a chat about the importance of a champion. To bridge the gender gap and foster a more inclusive environment, having a champion for female engineers is not just beneficial but essential. Let’s delve into why this advocacy is vital and how it can shape the future of engineering. And, indeed, what a champion is!

What is a Champion?

A champion is usually a senior leader, or at least someone more senior than you are! This is not the same as your manager or your mentor. In fact, this person might not even work in the same organisation as you do. But, this person sees your value, sees your potential and is willing to open doors and talk about you.

This is the person in the meetings and offices where the major decisions are made. They can and will mention you when another leader mentions an issue they’re having or a problem they need solved or a project that needs a leader. They push you forward and make sure people know about you. This happens in formal meetings, casual conversations, all sorts of arenas!

Breaking Barriers and Shaping Perspectives

A champion for female engineers serves as a catalyst for breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. By actively promoting the visibility, achievements, and contributions of female engineers, this advocate reshapes societal perceptions and norms surrounding gender roles in the field.

They talk about your specific skills and abilities and how they fit in with the issues being experienced. They will promote you when you’re not around to the people that matter. In particular, they will bring you up in conversations where you otherwise might not have been considered.

Fostering Mentorship and Support Networks

In male-dominated environments, female engineers may face unique challenges ranging from implicit biases to lack of representation and opportunities for advancement. A champion for female engineers plays a pivotal role in providing mentorship, guidance, and support networks tailored to address these specific needs. They offer mentorship programs, networking events, and advocacy initiatives designed to empower and elevate female engineers at all stages of their careers.

Driving Organisational Change and Innovation

Diversity drives innovation by bringing together diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas. A champion for female engineers advocates for inclusive policies, practices, and initiatives within organisations. They foster an environment where diverse voices are heard, valued, and respected. By championing gender diversity, organisations not only attract top talent but also enhance creativity, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities, ultimately driving competitive advantage and success in the marketplace.

Cultivating a Culture of Inclusion and Belonging

A champion for female engineers cultivates a culture of inclusion where every individual feels valued, empowered, and respected. They advocate for inclusive policies and practices that promote work-life balance, flexibility, and equal opportunities for career advancement. By fostering a sense of belonging, this advocate creates an environment where female engineers can thrive, contribute their best work, and reach their full potential.

Equally, by championing specific engineers, they bring to light talent and potential that might otherwise have gone un-noticed. Talen and potential that might otherwise have left the organisation due to lack of belonging.

Leading by Example and Inspiring Change

Above all, a champion for female engineers leads by example, embodying the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in their actions and behaviors. They inspire change not only within their organisations but also across the broader engineering community. They advocate for systemic change, challenge biases, and champion gender equality in the profession. Through their leadership and advocacy, they pave the way for a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive future for all engineers.

In conclusion, the importance of having a champion for female engineers cannot be overstated. From breaking barriers and fostering mentorship to driving organisational change and cultivating a culture of inclusion, this advocate plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of engineering. By championing gender diversity and inclusion, we can create a more innovative, resilient, and equitable engineering profession that harnesses the full potential of all individuals, regardless of gender. Let us all become champions for female engineers and together build a brighter, more inclusive future for engineering.