As this year’s Women’s Month draws to an end, there continues to be widespread celebrations across the length and breadth of the country to mark this important period in the South African history calendar.

This is no exception to the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) – there is a series of events by various departments and faculties university-wide to recognize and honor the strength, resilience, and achievements of our women staff and students.

Very recently, the Department of Civil Engineering in partnership with the Building and Construction Society Organization (BCESO), hosted the Engineering Women’s Day event aimed to spotlight and empower those in the male-dominated field of engineering, while encouraging students to pursue careers in this dynamic sector.

The event brought together a diverse array of departments and units from VUT, including Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Metallurgy, Industrial, NDT, Power, Process Control, Computer Systems, and Mechanical Engineering, as well as Alumni Relations and the Institutional HIV & AIDS Unit (IHAU). This cross-disciplinary collaboration underscored the importance of unity and collective support in advancing women’s roles in engineering.

The day was marked by the presence of several distinguished guests and speakers. Ms. Yvonne Daluz, a career advisor, and Ms. Nonhlanhla Mthembu, a life coach, were among the notable attendees who contributed to the day’s success. Their participation, along with that of guest speakers from various professional backgrounds, added depth and variety to the discussions and presentations.

The centerpiece of Engineering Women’s Day was a panel of accomplished women from different engineering disciplines. These panelists shared their personal and professional journeys, offering firsthand accounts of the challenges and triumphs they have experienced in their careers. Their stories provided invaluable insights into the realities of working in engineering, highlighting both the unique opportunities and the obstacles that women often encounter.

By showcasing the achievements of these trailblazing women, the gathering sought to motivate and encourage the next generation of engineers. The panel discussions and interactive sessions were designed to provide students with a clearer understanding of what it means to be a woman in engineering, and to offer practical advice and encouragement for pursuing a career in this field.

“Never feel the need to make excuses or justify yourself to others. People may try to bring you down, but it is important to speak up for yourself. Failing to meet traditional expectations does not diminish your worth as a woman,” advised Ms. Mthembu.

Engineering Women’s Day also served as a platform for addressing broader issues related to gender diversity in engineering. The presence of various departments and units reflected a holistic approach to addressing these challenges, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments for women in all engineering disciplines.

The event not only celebrated the achievements of women in engineering but also reinforced the importance of supporting and encouraging female students to pursue their dreams in this vital field. As the engineering community continues to evolve, events like these are essential in paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in engineering.