WOMEN IN ENGINEERING
‘ HAVING EXCELLENT ROLE MODELS IS ESSENTIAL’ Watson Advising director reflects on why more young women are choosing engineering and computer science
By Allen Wengert
W
hile men still largely dominate the fields of engineering and computer science, things are moving in the right direction. Research from the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) found a nearly 60% increase in bachelor’s degrees in those fields awarded to women from 2012 to 2017. Sharon Santobuono ’94, MA ’95, director of the Watson Advising Office, has noticed this shift firsthand. Working directly with students to determine career paths, Santobuono reflects on why she believes more women are pursuing careers in engineering and computer science.
What changes have happened that make it easier for women to pursue engineering and computer science careers?
What do you think is driving this trend?
What impact do you think Watson Advising had on the careers of students who are now alumni?
There is more exposure to these careers in middle and high school now due to STEM programs like Girls Who Code, and it’s made younger women realize that engineering isn’t just for men. They are taking advantage of these programs and are being mentored by college students and professors. I also think there is more exposure than ever before due to summer programs, social media and news coverage. It’s not just a man’s world anymore.
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WATSON REVIEW
Young women are becoming more confident in their career choices and aren’t afraid to seek roles dominated by men. They are seeing more women working in engineering jobs and in faculty roles, and that’s important. We’ve seen more women in teaching roles right here in Watson College, and that has helped enormously. Having excellent role models while in college is essential to building confidence in a career path. We also encourage students to take advantage of University clubs and organizations like the Society of Women Engineers, and to engage in research and internship opportunities with women role models.
We encourage them to be true to themselves, and we certainly help them stay on track along the way. We encourage students to seek internships and speak with counselors from Watson Career and Alumni Connections, upperclassmen and, most importantly, faculty advisors. I think we have a positive impact while they are students, and many come back to tell us so.
