McGill Celebrates Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day
INTRODUCE A GIRL TO ENGINEERING DAY
This year, February 22nd marks a special day in the field of engineering – Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day. This day is dedicated to encouraging and empowering young girls to explore the world of engineering, a field that has been historically male-dominated.
Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day aims to break down barriers and stereotypes, and inspire
young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
MCGILL VALUES WOMEN IN THE ENGINEERING INDUSTRY
At McGill, we recognize the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in the engineering industry. We are proud to actively support initiatives like Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, as we believe in the potential of all young minds, regardless of gender, to contribute to the future of engineering and innovation.
When asked what her favorite part about being an engineer Is, McGill Project Engineer Natalie Croom said, “I love being able to problem solve and engineering is a great career for that. Each project we work on has unique aspects that allow me to continually learn new things, and problem solve.”
McGill Engineering Technician Chris Brown said, “I love working with other engineers, community leaders, local governments, and site contractor teams. Being involved with projects from concept to full build out can be amazing. I love pointing out to my grandchildren that I was involved with the design of a stormwater control facility we drive by, or a greenway that they have used.”
ADVICE TO YOUNG GIRLS CONSIDERING A CAREER IN ENGINEERING
Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day is an opportunity to showcase the exciting and rewarding aspects of engineering to young girls. It is a day where volunteers, educators, and industry professionals come together to serve as role models, lead engineering activities, and demonstrate how engineers make a positive impact on the world.
“There are so many aspects to the engineering field: designing, building, inventing, finding solutions, etc.,” said Chris. “I would encourage young girls to research different job descriptions and types of engineers. Try to pursue an internship with a firm, government, utility or company that staff engineers.”
By engaging girls in hands-on activities and imparting knowledge about engineering, this initiative aims to spark their curiosity and interest in the field.
“If you like figuring out how things work or figuring out various solutions to problems / challenges, then engineering could be for you! I knew engineering could be in my future when I loved to take apart pens or toys to figure out how they worked, and I loved watching the TV show How It’s Made,” said Natalie.
“There’s no “right” way to be an engineer. In school you will likely run into classmates / teachers / professors that ascribe to a narrow view of what an engineer should look like and tell you that you’ll never make it in the industry because you don’t fit those criteria,” said Engineering Associate at McGill Caroline Althizer. “Those voices are loud, but they’re also wrong. The best engineers are well-rounded people who know more about life than just how to code and solve problems. So, dress the way you want to, dye your hair, wear makeup, teach dance, be a musician or an artist, and get that minor that has nothing to do with engineering if that is what makes you happy.”
EARLY EXPOSURE TO ENGINEERING HAS LASTING IMPACT ON GIRLS
According to research conducted by DiscoverE, the organization behind Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, exposure to engineering at a young age has a lasting impact on girls. By participating in engineering-related activities, girls develop an interest in the field and gain confidence in their problem-solving abilities.
Additionally, such experiences help in shaping their identity in STEM and provide them with the necessary encouragement to pursue careers in engineering.
INTRODUCE A GIRL TO ENGINEERING DAY IS A MOVEMENT
Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day is not just a day of recognition – it is a movement that aims to shape the future of engineering by creating opportunities for young women. Together, we can help young girls realize their potential and empower them to pursue their passions.
LEARN MORE
Click here to read about interesting projects that McGill has worked on, and we invite you to share some of these stories with any young girls in your life who may have an interest in pursuing engineering.
