Every year on June 23, the world comes together to celebrate International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), a global initiative dedicated to honoring the remarkable contributions of women engineers, promoting gender equality, and inspiring young women to pursue careers in engineering. This article delves into the significance of INWED, its history, and the inspiring achievements of women engineers from around the world, with a special focus on India’s trailblazers.
The Origin of International Women in Engineering Day
International Women in Engineering Day was first launched in 2014 by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES), a British organization founded in 1919 to support women in engineering. Initially celebrated as “Women in Engineering Day” in the UK, the event gained global recognition in 2017, earning its title as INWED. Today, INWED serves as a platform to celebrate the accomplishments of women engineers, break down stereotypes, and encourage young girls to explore engineering as a rewarding career path.
Why INWED Matters
INWED plays a crucial role in addressing the gender gap in engineering, a field historically dominated by men. By showcasing the achievements of women engineers, the day highlights their impact across industries like technology, aerospace, and infrastructure. It also aims to:
Celebrate Excellence: Recognize the groundbreaking contributions of women in engineering.
Promote Equality: Advocate for equal opportunities in a male-dominated field.
Inspire the Next Generation: Motivate young women to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers.
Global Icons: Women Engineers Who Changed the World
Women engineers have left an indelible mark on the world with their innovations and leadership. Here are a few global pioneers:
Hedy Lamarr (USA)
Known as a Hollywood actress, Hedy Lamarr was also a brilliant inventor. In the 1940s, she co-developed a frequency-hopping technology that laid the foundation for modern WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth. Her work revolutionized wireless communication, earning her posthumous recognition as a trailblazer in engineering.
Yajaira Sierra-Sastre (Puerto Rico)
A NASA scientist, Yajaira Sierra-Sastre has made significant contributions to space life sciences. Her work focuses on developing technologies for space exploration, and she actively inspires women to pursue careers in science and aerospace.
India’s Trailblazing Women Engineers
India has produced exceptional women engineers who have broken barriers and achieved greatness. Here are two iconic figures:
A. Lalitha (India’s First Woman Electrical Engineer)
In the 1940s, A. Lalitha became India’s first woman electrical engineer, carving a path in a male-dominated field. Her determination and expertise paved the way for future generations of women in engineering, proving that talent knows no gender.
Tessy Thomas (“Missile Woman of India”)
A distinguished scientist at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Tessy Thomas led the Agni missile project, earning her the title “Missile Woman of India.” Her leadership in aerospace engineering has inspired countless women to dream big.
Countless Unsung Heroes
Beyond these luminaries, countless women engineers worldwide and in India continue to innovate, lead, and inspire. From designing sustainable infrastructure to advancing cutting-edge technologies, their contributions shape a better future.
How INWED is Celebrated
On June 23, 2025, INWED will be marked by events such as:
Workshops and Seminars: To educate and empower young women about engineering careers.
Panel Discussions: Featuring women engineers sharing their journeys and insights.
Social Media Campaigns: Using hashtags like #INWED2025 to amplify stories of women in engineering.
Mentorship Programs: Connecting aspiring engineers with industry leaders.
In India, organizations, universities, and tech firms will host events to highlight the achievements of women engineers and encourage more girls to join STEM fields.
The Road Ahead
While progress has been made, the engineering field still faces challenges in achieving gender parity. INWED serves as a reminder to create inclusive environments, provide mentorship, and dismantle stereotypes that discourage women from entering engineering. By fostering education and opportunities, we can ensure that more women contribute to shaping the world’s technological future.
International Women in Engineering Day 2025 is a celebration of resilience, innovation, and equality. From global icons like Hedy Lamarr to India’s pioneers like Tessy Thomas, women engineers have transformed industries and inspired generations. As we honor their achievements, let’s commit to empowering young women to pursue engineering, ensuring a more diverse and dynamic future for the field. Join the movement this June 23 and celebrate the women who are building the world of tomorrow!