Engineers for a Day
Exploration
Attraction
Country: Portugal
University: Instituto Superior Técnico - ULisboa
Effort: High
Underrepresented Group: Women
Target Audience: High School
Type of Activity: Support groups, Communication initiatives

Description

The Women Engineers for a Day program, launched in 2017, seeks to reduce gender discrimination in professional contexts and promote equal opportunities for women in engineering and technology. It engages female students, faculty and families through hands-on challenges, workshops, mentoring and company visits. Since its inception, the initiative has reached more than 21,000 female students in 52 schools in Portugal, in partnership with 75 institutions, 11 municipalities and 19 higher education institutions (HEIs). Técnico Lisboa is one of the coordinating institutions.

A key initiative, Engineering Challenges, allows students to tackle real STEM problems, demonstrating their potential impact in these areas. The program also offers Girls in Engineering and Technology workshops, addressing topics such as gender equality in AI, women in IT careers and leadership. It includes work experience through company visits and mentoring, with Natixis matching students with female professionals. In addition, Girls in ICT Day is celebrated with school activities and visits to STEM labs to inspire young people.

Beyond students and teachers, families participate in workshops and talks to break down stereotypes that influence career choices. The program's success is based on a strong network of schools, IES, companies, municipalities and government agencies. Effective communication and continuous feedback gathering ensure its constant improvement.

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