#EnhancedByEngineering - Breaking Barriers
Women's Engineering Society
Supporting women engineers to fulfil their potential and supporting the engineering industry to be inclusive.
Welcome colleagues, friends, allies.
Drawing closer to #INWED24, we shine a well-deserved spotlight on the remarkable women who have elevated our society through their creativity and tenacity. We continue to honour our #EnhancedByEngineering theme by shining a light on the inspiring women who have made momentous impacts on society and our daily lives through their innovative contributions.
This week, we focus on the trailblazers who have challenged the status quo and broken barriers in a male-dominated field. These remarkable women have not only made groundbreaking advancements in engineering but have also served as powerful role models for future generations. Join us as we celebrate their strength, determination, and perseverance in overcoming adversity and shaping a more diverse and inclusive future. Together, we can continue to empower and inspire women in STEM, and create a world where everyone has an equal opportunity to make history.
This Weeks Spotlight: Hedy Lamarr (1913 - 2000)
Hedy Lamarr was an Austrian-American actress and inventor who made significant contributions to the field of engineering, particularly in the area of telecommunications. Although widely known for her successful acting career, Lamarr was also a gifted inventor with a keen interest in technology and science.
In collaboration with composer George Antheil, Lamarr developed a frequency-hopping technique that would allow radio-controlled torpedoes to avoid detection and jamming by enemy forces. This technology was designed to help the Allied forces during World War II, and while it was not implemented at the time, the concept of frequency hopping became a critical component of modern wireless communication systems such as Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth.
Lamarr's groundbreaking work in engineering demonstrated her innovative spirit and forward-thinking approach, ultimately shaping the future of telecommunications and impacting society in ways that are still felt today. Her achievements as both an actress and an inventor showcase the breadth of her talents and her enduring legacy in both the arts and sciences.
?? Get Inspired:
?? Podcast: The STEMinist Podcast
The STEMinist Podcast, hosted by Sadie T. and Tasha T., is a source of inspiration and empowerment for young girls and women interested in pursuing careers in STEM fields. By sharing stories of successful women in STEM and discussing topics like overcoming obstacles, finding mentors and navigating male-dominated environments, the hosts provide valuable insights and advice to help listeners follow their passions. Each episode offers resources and support to encourage the next generation of women to break barriers and achieve success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
A captivating account of the groundbreaking women who worked as "human computers" at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) during the height of the space race. Holt shines a light on the invaluable contributions of remarkable individuals like Barbara Paulson, Helen Ling, and Eleanor Francis, who not only made significant strides in rocket science and space exploration but also paved the way for future generations of women in STEM fields. This inspiring book showcases their innovative thinking, unwavering determination, and perseverance as they challenged the status quo and transformed the world of aerospace engineering.
??Film: Picture a scientist
A thought-provoking documentary that explores the challenges faced by women in STEM fields, particularly in the sciences. The film follows three female scientists – a biologist, a chemist, and a geologist – as they navigate the systemic sexism, harassment, and discrimination that has historically plagued the scientific community. Through powerful personal stories and compelling interviews with prominent researchers, the documentary highlights the critical need for change and encourages viewers to reimagine a more inclusive and diverse scientific world. "Picture a Scientist" is both an eye-opening examination of the current state of gender equity in STEM and an inspiring call to action for the future.
????Careers advice & resources:
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?? Quote of the week:
“Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, creativity, or curiosity. It’s your place in the world; it’s your life. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the life you want to live.” - Mae Jeminson
?? Shout out to this years INWED sponsors:
?? Question of the week
Each week we will give you a question to reflect on. If you'd like to share your thoughts we'd love to hear your answers in the comments below!
What qualities do you have that make you a great engineer?
?? Useful INWED links
As we move forward together in the spirit of innovation and camaraderie, remember that you are part of a powerful network of women who are changing the world, one groundbreaking idea at a time. We are problem-solvers, curious minds and resilient spirits, united in our mission to make the impossible possible.
Let us continue to lift each other up, celebrating our accomplishments and empowering future generations of female engineers. Thank you for joining us in this global celebration of women's remarkable contributions to engineering.
Mark your calendars for June 23rd, and take part in International Women in Engineering Day by attending events, or hosting your own, sharing your stories, or joining our annual webinar. Together we will continue to create a brighter, more inclusive future.
Stay tuned for more inspiring content - keep innovating and breaking barriers!