The Department of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford works to create equal opportunities for women in engineering. The Women in Engineering (WiE) Network was started in 2012 to help female students feel supported in their academic and professional lives. This network brings together women from different engineering fields, helping them grow through mentorship, events, and outreach activities. With strong links to schools, industry, and other organizations, the department aims to inspire more girls to choose engineering as a career.
Table of Contents
Purpose of the Women in Engineering (WiE) Network
Support for women in all engineering areas
Opportunities for growth through events and discussions
Encouragement for leadership in both academia and industry
Awareness of the need for gender diversity in technical fields
Inspiration for the next generation of female engineers
Network Overview
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Details
Year Established
2012
Department
Engineering Science, University of Oxford
Focus Areas
Civil, Mechanical, Biomedical, Electrical, and other branches
Goal
To build a community for women in engineering
Target Audience
Female students, researchers, alumni, and professionals
Key Activities and Events
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Description
Lunch & Learn Series
Talks by speakers on leadership, innovation, and diversity
Movie Nights
Films followed by open discussions on women in STEM
Panel Discussions
Events with faculty and industry leaders discussing career and gender issues
Outreach Visits
School programs to promote engineering to young girls
Workshops
Practical sessions on teamwork, communication, and leadership
Outreach Programme Highlights
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Initiative
Led By
Access & Alumni Officer
School Engagement
Visits to schools across the UK to talk about engineering
Taster Days
Hands-on activities and talks held at Oxford
STEM Fairs
Participation in national science events
Online Campaigns
Showcasing female engineers and their stories
Collaboration Partners
Schools, colleges, and industry partners
Outreach Goals
Attract More Female Students to Study Engineering
Promote Diversity by reaching students from different backgrounds
Explain Engineering Clearly through Practical Examples
Encourage Confidence in technical subjects
Build Career Awareness through real-life success stories
Planned Mentorship Programme
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Planned Features
Launch Time
Upcoming academic year
Pairing System
Based on interests and field of study
Mentor Types
Senior students, alumni, and industry professionals
Check-in Frequency
Monthly meetings for progress and discussion
Expected Benefits
Confidence boost, career advice, role model support
Benefits to Female Students
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Benefit Description
Increased Confidence
Feeling more secure in academic and career paths
Stronger Networks
Making valuable connections with peers and professionals
Professional Growth
Learning about teamwork, communication, and leadership
Career Readiness
Understanding the job market and possible engineering roles
Access to Mentors
Gaining advice and support from experienced individuals
Industry and Academic Partnerships
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Type of Support Provided
Industry Connections
Companies like Siemens and Rolls-Royce offer internships and exposure
School Links
Active collaborations with UK schools to promote engineering
University Colleges
Support for diverse admissions and academic success
STEM Charities
Joint events with groups like WISE and similar networks
Professional Bodies
Links with engineering institutions to support career development
Student Feedback and Testimonials
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Feedback Highlights
Positive Impact
Students feel more confident and supported in the program
Event Participation
High levels of interest in Lunch & Learn and outreach sessions
Peer Support
Students enjoy meeting others with similar goals and challenges
Alumni Involvement
Former students return to mentor and share their professional journeys
Future Plans of the WiE Network
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Planned Development
Mentorship Programme
Fully launch mentor matching and structured support
New Scholarships
Financial aid focused on supporting women from underrepresented communities
More Collaborations
Expand partnerships with industry and academic groups
National Conferences
Host events focused on women’s leadership in STEM
Research and Reports
Publish findings on gender diversity and student outcomes
Final Thoughts
The Women in Engineering Network at Oxford stands as a model of support, innovation, and inspiration. Through events, mentorship, outreach, and partnerships, the Department of Engineering Science helps young women explore their potential in engineering. By providing the tools, guidance, and encouragement needed for success, the department ensures that the voices of women in engineering continue to grow stronger. This continued commitment creates real change—not only at Oxford, but in the world of science and technology at large.
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