With a degree from the University of Cambridge in Aeronautical and Aerothermal Engineering, Marisa Kurimbokus, 34, from Leamington Spa has worked for the likes of Jaguar Land Rover, Triumph Motorcycles and Lyra Electronics. Her work saw her win the Institution of Engineering and Technology’s (IET) Young Woman Engineer of the Year at a ceremony in London in December last year.
After picking up this wonderful accolade she said in a BBC interview: “I’ve been very evangelical about women in engineering and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and to have a platform at this national level is an incredible opportunity to shout from the roof tops: ‘Hey girls, you enjoy maths, you enjoy science, look at this. You won’t only love a career in engineering but you can actually do really, really well at it’.
“I want to show girls and women, you don’t have to compromise, you don’t have to leave your personality at the door, I want you to come as your whole self and bring all those wonderful qualities with you to engineering because we are desperately lacking the more soft skills, the compassionate side and that’s what is really important to creating the future.”
Alongside Marisa picking up engineering gongs were 25-year-old Alexia Williams: the IET Mary George Memorial Prize for Apprentices; and 30-year-old, Natalie Parker: Women’s Engineering Society (WES) Prize.
Inspirational
Each year in June, the global engineering community comes together to celebrate International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) -a vital initiative that highlights the achievements of women in engineering, like Marisa, Alecia and Natalie while inspiring future generations to break barriers and enter the field.
Engineering has long been perceived as a male-dominated profession, but in recent years, the landscape has been changing. With more women entering STEM careers, the world is seeing diverse perspectives drive innovation and meaningful solutions. The importance of INWED continues to grow, as it reminds us that talent, capability, and brilliance are not defined by gender.
Why Engineering Needs More Women
Engineering is the backbone of technological progress, shaping everything from modern transportation and digital infrastructure to space exploration and medical advancements. However, despite its critical role in shaping the future, women still make up a minority in the industry.
A diverse engineering workforce brings fresh perspectives, creativity, and new ways to approach challenges. Women contribute to cutting-edge solutions, drive sustainable practices, and help create inclusive designs that serve all communities. By encouraging more women to pursue engineering, the industry becomes stronger, more innovative, and reflective of the world it serves.
The Growing Opportunities for Women in Engineering
Engineering offers limitless possibilities, spanning across industries such as sustainable energy and civil infrastructure. Here’s why engineering is a brilliant career choice for women:
1. A Career of Innovation and Problem-Solving
Engineers tackle real-world challenges. From creating renewable energy solutions to designing earthquake-resistant buildings, women engineers play a crucial role in solving global problems, ensuring that future generations benefit from safer and more efficient technologies.
2. Competitive Salaries and High Job Demand
With the world increasingly reliant on technological advancements, the demand for engineers continues to rise. Careers in engineering offer financial stability, career progression, and job security, making them an attractive option for women looking to make a lasting impact.
3. Opportunities to Lead and Influence Change
More women are stepping into leadership roles in engineering firms, shaping decisions and influencing policies that drive progress. Companies are actively seeking diverse talent, providing mentoring programmes and networking opportunities for women to grow and thrive.
4. Contribution to Society and Sustainability
Women engineers have been instrumental in developing sustainable practices – reducing carbon footprints, creating efficient transportation systems, and designing medical advancements that improve global health. Engineering allows women to contribute to a better future through meaningful, impactful work.
Breaking Barriers: Encouraging More Women to Join Engineering
While progress has been made, there is still work to do in fostering inclusive environments and providing better opportunities for women in engineering. Initiatives such as INWED, mentorship programmes, STEM outreach, and policy changes help support aspiring female engineers.
AT TTE we support women in seeking a career in engineering and help create opportunities for all to thrive, while pushing for a more inclusive engineering workforce.
Engineering is for everyone, and the future is brighter when women are at the forefront of innovation. Let’s continue breaking barriers, championing progress, and ensuring that engineering is a career where everyone can excel. The world needs more women engineers—are you ready to be like Marisa and be part of the change?
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