Engineering an inclusive community: Speed networking for International Women in Engineering Day

On 23 June, ANU celebrated International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) with a speed networking event for early career researchers and Higher Degree Research (HDR) students.

This year’s INWED theme is Engineering Intelligence. It calls for women, and those who identify as women, applying creativity, insight and courage to solve complex challenges and drive inclusive progress across industries and communities.

To mark this celebration, Professor Nan Yang, ANU School of Engineering IDEA working group lead, organised a speed networking event for women and those who identify as women in engineering across the college.

“The event was an incredibly vibrant hub of discussion, connection, and mutual support.” Nan remarks.

Professor Ivan Cole, ANU School of Engineering director, opened the networking session and later shared insights about the engineering space at the college.

"The event was incredibly useful. Hearing real-life advice from people who have navigated these exact paths gave me a completely new perspective on where I can take my own degree." - Anonymous mentee

Participants then had the opportunity to chat with mentors about their future. They explored questions about their careers, professional opportunities and navigating the engineering landscape. In return, the experienced mentors offered invaluable advice drawn from their own diverse career journeys.

"It was an absolute pleasure to share our experiences. The mentees were well driven and asked very meaningful questions that show the future of STEM is in fantastic hands." - Anonymous mentor 

“The overwhelming consensus from both sides was clear: mentees walked away with highly insightful career strategies and renewed confidence, while mentors found immense fulfillment in giving back to the community.” said Nan.

The ANU College of Systems and Society, and School of Engineering are committed to building a more diverse and inclusive engineering community. Events like these are part of how we make it real.