Architects of the future: how women in STEM are building a brighter Ireland

Niamh O’Hare

Communications Co-Lead, Connecting Women in Technology

As women in STEM continue to pave the way for a brighter future through innovative problem-solving, support of networks is crucial in promoting diversity and inclusion.

Connecting Women in Technology (CWiT) has been instrumental in promoting gender diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, inspiring and empowering women in STEM fields across Ireland.

Promoting the faces of women role models

Accenture’s Women on Walls campaigns have inspired and empowered young women to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Data from the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in Ireland shows that the percentage of female students in STEM courses in higher education institutions has increased to 30% within the 2020–2021 academic year.

In 2023, with the support of Paula Neary, Managing Director at Accenture, I co-hosted the launch of Guidance and Industry Network (GAIN) in collaboration with DCU and the 30% Club. GAIN empowers guidance counsellors with insights into skills, opportunities, and pathways available to young women.

By promoting women role models in STEM fields, GAIN bridges the gap between career guidance and industry, promoting diversity, inclusion and women’s leadership. Together, we can empower the next generation to achieve greater representation and diversity in the tech industry, including those returning to work.

Women are true architects of change, envisioning
and constructing a brighter future through
their innovative thinking and expertise.

More women pursue STEM roles

As a female aerospace engineer and certified security architect, I’ve seen a shift in gender dynamics in traditionally male-dominated fields like aerospace engineering and cybersecurity. More women are pursuing STEM careers and making significant contributions to science and technology. A prime example is Norah Patten, an Irish aeronautical engineer pursuing her dream of working in astronautical science.

CWiT actively supports and promotes women in tech and engineering. In the realm of STEM, women are true architects of change, envisioning and constructing a brighter future through their innovative thinking and expertise.

Increased visibility encourages women

As a woman in the STEM industry, I’m thrilled to see the positive impact of initiatives like CWiT, which have led to increased visibility for women in science and technology. By showcasing female role models and promoting gender diversity, these programmes are encouraging more young women to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.

I’ve personally witnessed this shift in Ireland, where the number of female STEM professionals in the engineering industry is on the rise. With continued support and opportunities for women in STEM, we can look forward to a brighter and more inclusive future for science and technology in Ireland.