Women Face ‘Encouragement Gap’ in STEM Careers, Survey Reveals

Research from Engineers Ireland has revealed a significant disparity in the encouragement given to women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Despite ongoing efforts to bolster the STEM sectors in Ireland, the survey indicates that men are nearly twice as likely to receive encouragement compared to women. The study, conducted in partnership with Interactions Research, polled over 1,000 adults and identified what has been termed an “encouragement gap.”

Only 32 percent of women surveyed reported being urged to consider a STEM career, while 43 percent of men indicated they had received similar encouragement. Despite a considerable proportion of the workforce—one in five individuals—employed in STEM roles, men dominate these positions, with 28 percent working in the field compared to just 16 percent of women.

Calls for Change in Guidance and Support

The survey results highlight a pressing need for improved guidance for women at an early stage in their education. Damien Owens, the Director General of Engineers Ireland, emphasized the importance of early support in shaping career choices. “This research shows the gender gap starts before college applications; it starts with who gets early guidance and support,” he stated. He advocated for visible role models and comprehensive guidance in schools to help young women see themselves in engineering and remain in the profession.

Interestingly, the survey revealed that 70 percent of respondents felt they would actively encourage others to pursue a STEM career. The fields of engineering, teaching, and family services emerged as the most influential sources of encouragement.

Addressing Wider Economic Challenges

Beyond the encouragement gap, the survey also explored Ireland’s domestic and international challenges. Nearly two-thirds of participants agreed that promoting STEM training is essential for supporting the economy in light of global pressures. Concerns were raised regarding vital areas such as infrastructure, with 79 percent of respondents expressing apprehensions about housing shortages. Additionally, 69 percent pointed to energy infrastructure shortfalls, while 67 percent cited worries related to the climate crisis.

When asked to prioritize infrastructural challenges, housing emerged as the most pressing issue, garnering 81 percent of the votes, followed closely by energy (strongly supported by 79 percent), transport (supported by 74 percent), and water infrastructure (also supported by 74 percent).

Owens remarked, “Ireland urgently needs more engineers to deliver on housing, energy, and other forms of key infrastructure, yet the signals that steer young people towards these careers are not reaching everyone equally. Women remain underrepresented not only in early guidance but in the profession itself.”

The conversation surrounding women in engineering was further amplified by Anisa Pjetri, a senior structural engineer and project manager at AtkinsRéalis. She spoke about the importance of providing opportunities for women in the traditionally male-dominated field of engineering, underscoring the need for a concerted effort to promote diversity and inclusion.

The findings of this survey not only shed light on the challenges women face in entering STEM careers but also underscore the broader infrastructural issues that Ireland must address to secure its economic future. The call for collaborative societal efforts to promote visibility and accessibility in engineering is more crucial than ever.