As a woman employed by a technical company, I have to get something off my chest. Recently, photos of the Achema trade fair were circulating in my network. To my surprise, they showed young ladies in low-coverage clothing busy with promotional activities. On seeing these images, I wondered why on earth companies are still using sexy hostesses and promotion ladies in a sector desperate for staff (young, old, men and women) in 2018?
Netherlands last
Let's take a look at the figures. In the Netherlands, the proportion of women in technical professions is remarkably lower than in the rest of Europe. At 18%, we are the laggard. Of all women who have completed a technical education, only 35% work in engineering. In the upper and middle segments of the manufacturing industry, the percentage of women is lowest.
Too few role models
According to Dr Cocky Booij, director of the national expertise bureau girls/women and STEM VHTO, many girls think that engineering is not for them. They have an unclear image of it and underestimate themselves when it comes to their knowledge and skills in STEM subjects. But what is particularly lacking is that there are too few female role models in our country.
#Ilooklikeanengineer
The search for role models reminded me of a 2015 US campaign set up to get rid of the stereotypes that still exist when it comes to tech workers. It produced several a fun videos featuring young, proud (mostly female) engineers, including this one from Manhattan College: https://youtu.be/scGiZKz43jo
Technology is for boys
Would such a campaign work for us too? There is plenty of potential. In the Netherlands, both girls and boys score high on maths internationally. Girls are said to be enthusiastic about engineering on average from the age of 11, but soon think that engineering is more something for boys and that it is boring and difficult.
Benefits of mixed teams
A pity, because women certainly offer advantages for a technical company. Mixed teams often improve working conditions and the atmosphere on the shop floor. These teams tend to be more creative and innovative, and diversity has a positive effect on decision-making. And since the demand for technicians cannot be filled by men alone, women are simply desperately needed. Reasons enough to warmly welcome women into the tech industry.
Example
So are you a woman and technical? Then show up as a female role model. And dear technical companies; Let's agree that from now on we will use women on our trade fair stands who make girls feel at home in engineering. This is a must for the future of the technical sector in the Netherlands!
