Wanted: More female engineers!

Data shows that women make up only 33.3% of researchers worldwide, and 35% of students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. As today we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we decided to talk to Josefina Kristensson, R&D Engineer and Technical Product Manager at Wellspect, about what motivated her to study biotechnology and how she thinks we can increase the number of women in STEM-related professions?

'You know, I’ve always loved animals! I really wanted to become a vet – until my first practice, when I realized that the sight of blood made me nauseous. I’m just too sensitive for that,' Josefina begins. 'But I’ve always been interested in natural sciences, so I chose to study biotechnology at Chalmers

University of Technology. It seemed to offer a broad range of future opportunities, and it felt like the perfect fit. However, the first year of chemistry and mathematics almost made me reconsider. But I’ve never backed down from a challenge! Once the focus shifted to biotechnology, I knew I’d made the right choice. I was eager to learn more about the work behind the scenes in hospitals and was especially interested in stem cells and cellular models – anything that could replace animal testing,' says Josefina, who lives with her partner and two cats, and spends the majority of her spare time in the stables.

“I wanted to support medicine but couldn’t stand the sight of blood!”

Josefina continues, “After my internship at a large MedTech company, I realized that round-the-clock research wasn’t for me, and I didn’t want to get stuck in academia. I wanted to support doctors without becoming one, by providing useful tools and making a difference. And here I am! I wouldn’t want to switch to another industry, and I love working at Wellspect, where the manufacturing is in the same location. It’s fascinating to be so close to production and have access to the entire value chain. Collaboration is smoother, and lead times are shorter.”

“Being so close to production and overseeing the whole value chain is really cool.”

When asked what she thinks could encourage more women to become engineers, Josefina reflects on the fact that some engineering programs typically (and perhaps traditionally) attract more men than others, but emphasizes that this should never discourage girls from applying. 'It would help if there were more female lecturers at the college level – role models who show that men aren't the only ones who excel at math and the natural sciences. But you should trust your gut, never compare yourself to others, and never give up!' Josefina says, adding, 'Female engineers are highly sought after in the job market and rarely have to search long for an interesting job. Many students think they need to choose the perfect university program right away for their future careers, but it's important to understand that many paths can lead to the same goal. You should try and test different things, both in studies and in work.”

“Be stubborn, trust your gut and get support from good people. You’re never alone.”

Josefina mentions local initiatives like the Swedish ‘Teknikspr?nget’ – a four-month paid internship where you get the chance to test the engineering profession in practice, and also that students in most countries can apply for grants and scholarships that allow them to try new things.

But she also thinks that companies should be better at making themselves visible and attractive to students – offer internships and take part in university work-related events. And she concludes: “It would be great if older students could visit schools and colleges and talk about the different engineering programs available to both boys and girls, inspiring them already at a younger age.”

Do you have any tips and advice for girls who are interested in science-related programs? Comment below and share this article to help inspire more female scientists!

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