A recently released children’s book aimed at inspiring more girls to explore careers in engineering is getting a fantastic reception from schools and employers all over the UK.
“Girls Can Engineer” is in high demand at schools nationwide, and many businesses are buying copies on their own to support outreach efforts and motivate young people to consider engineering careers, especially in fields where women are still underrepresented.
The book’s main message is straightforward: there are no obstacles stopping girls from pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This message is especially relevant as we celebrate National STEM Day on November 8.
Subscribe to PII and receive:
Our long-established bi-monthly digital magazine *Process Industry Informer*, featuring exclusive articles, news and updates across the Process Industries, plus commentary from our three industry experts:
Sean Moran
Gavin Smith
Dave Green
PLUS:
- Process Industry Update — our weekly e-newsletter
- PII Podcast
- Special messages from our advertising partners
Published in June by Pertemps, a recruitment firm based in the West Midlands, the book targets girls aged seven to nine. With vibrant illustrations and interesting facts, it aims to help young readers picture themselves as future engineers.
Helen Hibbert, Director at Pertemps Network Group, shared her thoughts:
“The response has gone beyond what we expected, and the feedback has been incredibly positive. We’ve already distributed around 4,000 copies, and interest keeps growing.
“This project is all about encouraging more girls to think about engineering careers. While it may take time to see the impact, we hope it will help bridge the gender gap in the industry.”
Currently, women make up only 16.9 percent of the UK engineering workforce, compared to 56 percent in other professions.
As part of this initiative, the under-12 girls’ football team Northycote FC from Wolverhampton recently visited local engineering companies ERA and Quanex, both of which have partnered with Pertemps to support the project, to learn more about careers in engineering.
Team coach Mykal Whyton shared, “Even a week after our visit, the girls were still buzzing about engineering and dreaming about the careers they want to pursue in the future.”
All the profits from the sales of Girls Can Engineer on Amazon go directly to the Tech She Can STEM charity.
You can buy copies of the book here.
The book's illustrations were crafted by students at Foxford School in Coventry.
If you’d like more information or want to chat about opportunities related to the Girls Can Engineer initiative, feel free to reach out to andy.blundell@pertemps.co.uk.
