IET urge female engineers to apply for prestigious honour

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The Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) have sent out a plea to aspiring candidates: enter the Young Women Engineer of the Year Awards before September 15th.

Sponsored by industry heavyweights including British Telecom and the Ford motor group, the awards were conceived in the concern that only 8% of the UK’s engineers are women. Holding a lofty status as a prestigious honour, the awards seek to recognise female engineering achievements and to kick-start blossoming careers.

Dr Alf Roberts, chief executive of the IET said: “The Institution is committed to raising the profile of engineering and encouraging more young people, including women, to consider a wider participation within the industry. It is important that young women stand up and shout about their achievements in engineering, especially in light of the current skills shortages within the industry”.

Open to all women under the age of 30, the awards recognise and value practical achievements, which they consider to be equal to academics. Furthermore, judges will be looking for inspirational leaders who would provide a role model for the industry and to act as an ambassador for women’s engineering. Receipt of the award brings with it a prize of £1000 along with an engraved trophy, to be handed out at an awards ceremony on the 25th January 2007.

“In particular, we hope the Young Woman Engineer of the Year Awards will help to address the shortage of female role models within the profession and demonstrate that engineering is a great career for women”, Dr Alf added.

For further information or to apply online click here

Vijay Pattni.

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