4 answers
Ava
Student
Thomaston, Georgia
1
Question
Updated
190 views
How can I be taken seriously as a woman in Engineering?
I'm a high school senior from a small southern town, and it's hard when you tell people you want to be an engineer and they look at you funny. I am also struggling to find other women in engineering.
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4 answers
Kris Cousino
Construction management
63
Answers
Toledo, Ohio
Updated
Kris’s Answer
Your honesty is so appreciated! I am a female structural civil engineer that has completed 35 years in the field. It is a real struggle to earn the same level of respect that your male counterpart has.
One thing I always made sure to do is to be the MOST prepared person in the room. If you know you have a meeting coming up, anticipate all the questions that will be asked and be prepared to provide solid answers. Read the reports, study the data, google other details beforehand. Unfortunately, you may also have to watch out for the male ego. If you show up your male boss, it could impact you negatively.
I was the only female in the room throughout a majority of my career. It is getting better out there. You can't demand respect, but you can prove that you deserve it.
The looks aren't going to stop. I still cringe when I meet someone new and they ask me what I do for my career. There is always "that" look. Perhaps you can develop your own look - some kind of glare back, like I dare you! LOL. Keep up your confidence. If you like math, you like problem solving, you will love engineering and there is no reason why you cannot be highly successful!
One thing I always made sure to do is to be the MOST prepared person in the room. If you know you have a meeting coming up, anticipate all the questions that will be asked and be prepared to provide solid answers. Read the reports, study the data, google other details beforehand. Unfortunately, you may also have to watch out for the male ego. If you show up your male boss, it could impact you negatively.
I was the only female in the room throughout a majority of my career. It is getting better out there. You can't demand respect, but you can prove that you deserve it.
The looks aren't going to stop. I still cringe when I meet someone new and they ask me what I do for my career. There is always "that" look. Perhaps you can develop your own look - some kind of glare back, like I dare you! LOL. Keep up your confidence. If you like math, you like problem solving, you will love engineering and there is no reason why you cannot be highly successful!
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
38
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Ava,
I truly understand & appreciate your situation.
Self-awareness is a great starting point. As humans, we generally have strengths & weaknesses. Our knowledge of them enables us leverage our strengths & turn our weaknesses into strengths. A good understanding of our self-worth should boost our self-esteem. A positive mindset is helpful too.
Once you're proficient in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer applications, design & graphics, fine art etc. you already have the potential to become an engineer in the many disciplines available.
What is important is that we are curious, interested, passionate & diligent in persuing the career we desire. Guidance from teachers, role models & professionals puts us in a good stead to persue our careers. Access to engineering publications can be a good source of relevant information too.
Membership to professional engineering Institutions can be valuable, especially where online access is available. You can also visit engineering firms in your locality to familiarize yourself with their work.
At the end of the day, you need to believe in yourself to ensure you take full advantage of your potential.
I truly understand & appreciate your situation.
Self-awareness is a great starting point. As humans, we generally have strengths & weaknesses. Our knowledge of them enables us leverage our strengths & turn our weaknesses into strengths. A good understanding of our self-worth should boost our self-esteem. A positive mindset is helpful too.
Once you're proficient in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer applications, design & graphics, fine art etc. you already have the potential to become an engineer in the many disciplines available.
What is important is that we are curious, interested, passionate & diligent in persuing the career we desire. Guidance from teachers, role models & professionals puts us in a good stead to persue our careers. Access to engineering publications can be a good source of relevant information too.
Membership to professional engineering Institutions can be valuable, especially where online access is available. You can also visit engineering firms in your locality to familiarize yourself with their work.
At the end of the day, you need to believe in yourself to ensure you take full advantage of your potential.
Cody Gaspar
C.I., Quality, and Reliability Engineering
36
Answers
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Updated
Cody’s Answer
I've had the pleasure of working with some amazing women engineers, and they were truly outstanding. Gender was never an obstacle in the industry from my observation.
If you're looking to connect with women in engineering, consider checking out the Society of Women Engineers.
If you're looking to connect with women in engineering, consider checking out the Society of Women Engineers.
Dan Wolf
Retired Electrical/Software Engineer and part-time College Professor (BSEET and MS Engineering Management)
132
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Dan’s Answer
Many people hold unfair stereotypes about women in engineering — but those views shouldn’t define your path. I’ve worked with many outstanding women engineers who earned the respect of their teams through their expertise, communication, and leadership. The truth is, good engineers recognize and respect other good engineers, regardless of gender.
So how can you stand out and be taken seriously? Focus on becoming a great engineer. Learn your craft, stay curious, and grow your technical and industry expertise. Passion and persistence are powerful tools.
Here are a few additional tips from experience:
1. Maintain professionalism—in how you speak, act, and present yourself. Let your work take center stage.
2. Keep personal and professional boundaries clear. This is good advice for everyone in the workplace.
3. Be a strong team player. Communicate clearly, collaborate well, and always follow through on your commitments.
4. Commit to lifelong learning. Engineering evolves rapidly—so should you.
5. Understand your industry. Context matters. Learn about your company, competitors, and emerging technologies.
6. Build your network. Find a mentor or peer who can help you navigate your company and grow.
And remember: if you find yourself in a place where you're not respected despite your contributions, seek out other environments where your skills are recognized and your voice is heard.
Finally, engineering is a rewarding, exciting field. There’s room for everyone who’s passionate, curious, and committed to growth and good engineers are always in demand.
So how can you stand out and be taken seriously? Focus on becoming a great engineer. Learn your craft, stay curious, and grow your technical and industry expertise. Passion and persistence are powerful tools.
Here are a few additional tips from experience:
1. Maintain professionalism—in how you speak, act, and present yourself. Let your work take center stage.
2. Keep personal and professional boundaries clear. This is good advice for everyone in the workplace.
3. Be a strong team player. Communicate clearly, collaborate well, and always follow through on your commitments.
4. Commit to lifelong learning. Engineering evolves rapidly—so should you.
5. Understand your industry. Context matters. Learn about your company, competitors, and emerging technologies.
6. Build your network. Find a mentor or peer who can help you navigate your company and grow.
And remember: if you find yourself in a place where you're not respected despite your contributions, seek out other environments where your skills are recognized and your voice is heard.
Finally, engineering is a rewarding, exciting field. There’s room for everyone who’s passionate, curious, and committed to growth and good engineers are always in demand.