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Girls Can Engineer
Created by Pertemps Network Group and supported by Enginuity, the Girls Can Engineer book is a colourful, interactive resource designed to inspire girls aged 7–9 to explore the world of engineering.
Why is it important?
To show girls that engineering is a career for everyone
We know just how important employer engagement is for young people. Research from EngineeringUK shows that young people who have four or more meaningful employer encounters are 86% less likely to become NEET and are far more likely to consider STEM pathways.
Women still make up only 16.9% of the UK’s engineering and manufacturing workforce, and fewer than two in every ten engineers are female. Girls Can Engineer can help to change that story by helping young girls see engineering as a world where they truly belong.
Backed by data
According to results from the Science Education tracker:
55% → 39%
Interest in STEM careers falls from 55% among Year 7 students to 39% among Year 13 students.
38% vs 20%
Girls are almost twice as likely as boys to say they don’t feel they’re good at STEM subjects.
45%
45% of students say extracurricular activities, school visits or talks by STEM professionals inspire them.
"One of the most effective ways to bridge the gender gap in STEM is through the influence of relatable, female role models. Research consistently shows that girls are more likely to consider STEM careers if they know or see a woman in the field, which is critical for addressing the ‘dream gap’.
"When girls don’t, or can’t, see women succeeding in these fields, it becomes harder for them to envision themselves pursuing similar careers."
Tabby Hanlon-Scott
Sector Engagement Lead at Enginuity
Who is it for?
The storybook is designed for girls aged 7–9, but it can be used by anyone helping young people discover more about engineering and STEM:
Employers can use it as a resource when engaging with schools and young people, helping to inspire the next generation of engineering talent.
Educators can use it to introduce engineering and STEM in the classroom and start conversations about future careers.
Parents and carers can explore the storybook with young people at home, encouraging curiosity and helping them discover new possibilities.
Helping SMEs inspire the next generation
At Enginuity, we’re committed to making it easier for engineering and manufacturing SMEs to connect with the next generation
That’s why we’ve partnered with recruitment specialists Pertemps to raise awareness and share copies the Girls can Engineer storybook. By helping SMEs, we can:
- Introduce real engineering role models who reflect the diversity of the sector
- Challenge outdated stereotypes that still shape girls’ career choices
- Showcase exciting opportunities across engineering and manufacturing.
The book gives businesses a ready‑made, engaging way to visit schools and talk to young people about careers in our sector, without needing specialist resources.
If you'd like to receive some copies, please get in touch with us at [email protected] to make it happen.
Read Girls Can Engineer online
A future in engineering starts with curiosity. Explore the stories, meet the role models and discover just some of the ways engineering can shape the world.
Read more