Women in Engineering: What They Contribute & Why the Industry Needs More
The world is being built—literally—by engineers. But despite the immense demand for engineering talent, only a small fraction of these professionals are women. Globally, women make up just 7% of the engineering workforce, a statistic that reveals not a lack of talent, but a lack of opportunity, support, and representation.
At Busoga International Polytechnic (BIP), we believe the future of engineering must be inclusive, innovative, and diverse—and that starts with ensuring more women are part of the equation.
Why the Industry Needs More Women
Engineering shapes the way we live—from the buildings we work in to the systems that power our cities. When women are missing from this process, valuable perspectives and problem-solving approaches are lost.
Here’s what women bring to engineering—and why the industry needs them:
✅ Collaborative Thinking: Studies show women are more likely to foster collaboration in project environments, which is essential in multi-disciplinary engineering work.
✅ Innovative Solutions: Gender-diverse teams are more likely to challenge assumptions and design better, more user-centric solutions.
✅ Closing the Talent Gap: With industries facing massive talent shortages in construction, mechanical, and oil & gas sectors, ignoring half the population is simply unsustainable.
✅ Better Representation = Better Design: From infrastructure to safety equipment, inclusive engineering teams make decisions that better serve diverse populations.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
- 🌍 Only 7% of engineering professionals worldwide are women
- 🔧 Less than 20% of engineering students globally are female
- ⚙️ In East Africa, the number drops even further in technical and vocational institutions
These numbers aren’t just statistics—they’re a call to action.
How BIP Is Changing the Equation
At BIP, we don’t just invite women in—we equip them to lead.
🔹 We collaborate with girls’ schools to introduce STEM early
🔹 We ensure female students have role models and mentors
🔹 We share real stories to show what’s possible
One of those stories is Hilder Bisera—a standout plumbing student who used her training at BIP to launch her own business.
“When I joined BIP, I didn’t know how far I could go. Now, I have clients, contracts, and confidence.”
She’s not the exception—she’s the start of a movement.
You Belong Here. Engineering Needs You.
To every young woman wondering if engineering is “for girls”—we say: It’s for you.
You’re needed. You’re capable. You’re already enough.
Apply to BIP and start your journey in a place that supports your ambition.
