Qualitative research on opportunities to improve the retention of women in engineering

Recent quantitative research undertaken by the Royal Academy of Engineering and Engineering UK identified that women were more likely than men to leave engineering at the mid-career stage. This qualitative study commissioned by the Academy aims to better understand the issues affecting women’s retention in engineering and opportunities to improve their retention, with a particular focus on how identity and intersecting characteristics impact women throughout their careers. The study includes career narrative interviews with up to 30 women, non-binary and gender-nonconforming individuals in their mid-career who are/were working in engineering roles. It will be supported by a short literature review and two workshops with expert stakeholders.

Project details

Client Royal Academy of Engineering
Year 2025
IES contact Astrid AllenAstrid Allen Clare Huxley, Research Fellow, Institute for Employment StudiesClare Huxley Dan MasonDaniel Mason Emma PollardEmma Pollard Joseph Cook Louisa Illidge