Wanted urgently: More women in engineering

New research shows the proportion of women in engineering roles has remained static since 2008 while the proportion of female technicians has also remained unchanged.

The survey, published by the IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology), shows that only 6% of engineers (5% in 2008) and 3% of technicians (5% in 2008) are women.

Paul Davies, head of policy at the IET said: "It is disappointing that no progress has been made to attract more women into engineering over the last four years. Part of the reason is down to the outdated views of engineering that many people have.

"We run a number of initiatives to challenge these perceptions. It is not a problem that can be sorted out quickly or in isolation. There are actions the government can take in terms of support; the profession can do more to co-ordinate its activities; and organisations can do more to provide an attractive working environment." The survey also shows that 47% of the companies questioned plan to recruit this year.However, of those recruiting, 48% are struggling to find senior engineers to fill vacancies.

Figures suggest employers are beginning to experience a potentially serious skills shortage.