Ford inspires next generation of female engineers

“In the centenary year of the Women’s Engineering Society, we are proud to be hosting so many young women at our Dunton site to celebrate INWED 2019,” said Alexandra Walker, Powertrain Quality Manager.

“This is a crucial time in their education as they make decisions that could open or close their career paths. We want to show the girls just how diverse and rewarding careers in STEM and, in particular, engineering can be, and give them a taste of what it’s like to be Ford engineer.”

The event, held at Ford’s Dunton Technical Centre, gives the students the chance to learn about the diverse opportunities to which STEM subjects can lead. Activities organised at Dunton include a tour of the test track, programming, virtual reality experience, and rocket building.

According to research led by the Institute of Physics, currently 50% of GCSE Physics students are girls, but this drops to just 20% at A-Level. The Dunton event is part of Ford’s commitment to Investing in the Talent Pipeline of the Future and addressing the imbalance between the genders in STEM related roles. 

“Currently, only 11% of the UK’s engineering force is female, but with events like this we are fighting to #TransformTheFuture and help young women from across Essex appreciate the full range of options open to them,” said Walker.

The day included tours, activities and discussions, with Ford’s female engineers leading the event.