As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March the 8th, 2025, we reflect on the progress made toward gender equality and recognise the strides women have taken in various fields. Two industries that have historically been male dominated are the gas and electrical sectors, but times are changing, and women are making their mark in these critical fields.
Historical Struggles and Triumphs
Before we delve into the evolving landscape of the gas and electrical industries, it’s essential to acknowledge the historical struggles women faced. The Equal Pay Act of 1970 marked a significant turning point, rectifying the legal disparities that allowed women to be paid less for the same work. However, the journey to equality started way long before, with trade unionist Clementina Black proposing equal pay in 1888.
During World War 1, women broke stereotypes by forming competitive football teams and actively participating in the workforce, including delivering sacks of coke for the Gas Light and Coke Company. Despite these efforts, gender biases persited, with the Daily Mail condescendingly referring to these women as “Coaliettes”.
Challenges in the Gas Engineering Industry
The gas engineering industry has long been perceived as a male-dominated realm. Societal stereotypes and workplace challenges, such as a lack of female role models and potential gender bias, have deterred women for pursuing careers in this vital sector. Real-life experiences of female gas engineers often reveal instances of having to prove themselves in predominantly male workplaces.
Recent data indicates a gradual shift as more women enter the gas engineering industry. As the world confronts climate change and strives for cleaner energy sources, diversity becomes crucial for innovative and sustainable practices. The contributions of women in the gas industry are evolving, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for a more equitable and diverse future.
The Electrical Industry and a Call for Diversity
While the gas engineering industry is witnessing a gradual shift, the electrical industry still faces a significant gender gap, with less than 3% of electricians being women. This discrepancy is particularly alarming as the global demand for electricians rises, and the sector faces a massive labour shortage.
Encouraging women to pursue careers in the electrical industry is vital to meeting this growing demand. The benefits of becoming an electrician are substantial, offering job security, competitive pay, and job satisfaction.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us acknowledge the progress made and the challenges that persist. The gas and electrical industries are gradually becoming more inclusive, with women playing vital roles in shaping the future of these crucial sectors. Encouraging more women to pursue careers in gas engineering and the electrical industry is not only a step toward gender equality but also a necessity for addressing the growth demands and challenges in these fields. Together, we can create a more diverse, equitable, and sustainable future for all.
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