Kaycee
As there are still not many women in the engineering field, what would I be able to do in college and my future career to earn more respect from men in that field?
I have heard from some female engineers that I have talked to about how they weren't given as much respect as they should from men in college and their workplace. This worries me because I want to major in Biomedical Engineering and I want to be fully respected in the workplace and in college and I am not sure if I could handle the disrespect that I have heard happens in college and the workplace for women in engineering. #engineering #biomedical-engineering #women-in-stem #women-in-engineering
3 answers
bridget navoda
bridget’s Answer
Hi Kaycee -- Disrespect of women in engineering is not unique; many women face disrespect in business, transportation and medicine! Given that it is "universal", do not shy away from your desired field of Biomedical Engineering!
Although work ethic & knowledge should be the only determining factors when a student or employee is striving for influence and respect, we are social creatures and so both appearance and communication come into play as well.
This is a lovely blog entry that provides tips for any young lady who feels others undermine her value because she is female:
http://www.mscareergirl.com/2011/01/27/7-ways-to-earn-more-respect-and-influence-as-a-young-professional-woman/
Best to you,
Bridget
Thank you so much for that information! It definitely helps me on my comfindence level entering the field!
Kaycee
Simon Robson
Simon’s Answer
Kaycee,
I have been in the engineering field for over 40 years ( back when there really were few women in the field) and generally speaking, in my experience as an engineering manager, women are seen as equals in engineering support and leadership roles. The only time this has been an issue is when an individual (male or female) does not contribute equally. Respect is earned and if you are a good engineer and contributed, you should become a well respected, valuable engineering resource. This is not to say you will not run into someone who does not acknowledge your talent, the way you address the situation through communication and example, will determine the future. Good luck
Tally Oliveau
Tally’s Answer
I worked as an engineer and project manager for over 10 years, and it seems that almost every field I work in, I'm either the only, or one of very few, women. I'm always professional, know my stuff, prepare, stay up to date with current trends in my industry, etc.
In general, I find people treat me the way I set the expectation to be treated. There is a fine line for women on being "pushy" and being "assertive". Worry less about what others think about you, and spend more time thinking about what you think about yourself and developing yourself professionally. Don't let others prevent you from doing what you want to do! We need more women engineers and leaders. If they all decide they're not going to do it because there aren't enough women, then the number of women will never increase. Decide you're going to be a leader, and then you'll be one!