#EnhancedByEngineering - A Celebration of Innovation
Women's Engineering Society
Supporting women engineers to fulfil their potential and supporting the engineering industry to be inclusive.
Welcome colleagues, friends and allies.
With just under two months to go until INWED, we’re getting pretty excited about the things we’ve got coming up. In this week's newsletter, we continue to shine a spotlight on the incredible women who are shaping the engineering landscape and propelling our world forward, while sharing valuable resources and insights to support you in your engineering career and give you a sense of fellowship and community in a male-dominated industry.
We invite you to explore the achievements, insights, and stories that inspire us all. Together we can celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in engineering and their unwavering dedication to innovation. So, let's dive in and celebrate the extraordinary women who are enhancing our world through engineering!
This Weeks Spotlight: Rachel Mary Parsons (1885 - 1956)
Rachel Mary Parsons was a trailblazing engineer and advocate for women in engineering. Daughter of Sir Charles Parsons, inventor of the compound steam engine, she developed an early interest in engineering. She was one of the first three women to study Mechanical Sciences at Newnham College, Cambridge, strengthening her theoretical knowledge.
During the First World War, Rachel took on the role of director at her father's Parsons Marine Steam Turbine Company, overseeing the recruitment and training of female engineers. Her commitment to supporting women in the industry led to the foundation of the Women's Engineering Society (WES) in 1919, alongside her mother, Lady Katharine Parsons, and other female pioneers. Rachel chaired the first WES meeting and became its first president (1919–1921).
Continuing her passion for engineering, Rachel co-founded the Atalanta engineering company with a group of women, fostering an environment for women to excel in the field. Her influence extended to professional organisations, as she became an Associate of the Institute of Naval Architects in 1922. Additionally, she served as a member of the London County Council, contributing to the Highways Committee and the Electricity Supply Committee. In 1934, she was elected as a member of the North East Coast Institution of Engineers and Shipbuilders, breaking new ground for women in the industry.
Rachel Mary Parsons' achievements significantly impacted society by paving the way for women in engineering. Her commitment to promoting women's roles in the industry and her own successes in various engineering endeavours continue to inspire generations of female engineers to pursue their passions and break down barriers.
?? Get Inspired:
?? Podcast: Big Sisters in STEM
Be inspired by the strength and resilience of women and marginalised voices in STEM fields. Every week Big Sisters in STEM sit down with scientists, students and sisters in all stages of their journey - exploring their achievements and the challenges of being a woman in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. From overcoming self-doubt to breaking barriers, these individuals share their stories and remind us we are not alone.
?? Book: The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict ?
Discover the captivating tale of Hedy Lamarr, a woman of both extraordinary beauty and intellect. A glamorous Hollywood star who defied expectations and paved the way for groundbreaking inventions that revolutionised modern communication. Immerse yourself in this inspiring tale of resilience, intelligence and the untold story of an icon.
??Documentary: She Started It
An award-winning feature-length documentary following five young women as they pursue their dreams of breaking into the world of tech. Providing a graphic illustration of the ups and downs women go through, exploring issues of self-doubt and aversion to risk, traits which hold many women back. In a display of endless grit and determination, they break into a male-dominated industry allowing their ambition to outweigh their failures.
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????Careers advice & resources:
?? Quote of the week:
“If you haven’t failed yet, you haven’t tried anything.” - Reshma Saujani
?? 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 does being an engineer mean to you?
As we wrap up this week's newsletter, we hope that you've found inspiration in the successes of fellow female engineers. Together let's continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes and pave the way for future generations of women in engineering. Thank you for joining us in celebrating the achievements and innovations of women who are making a difference in the world.
Don’t forget to get involved in this year's INWED on 23rd of June this year we have events planned over the weekend. Check out our events page to submit your event, post on socials with #EnhancedByEngineering and share your stories, or join our annual webinar (more information coming soon).?
We look forward to bringing you more inspirational content next week - until then stay motivated and keep innovating.