Robogals and Schneider Electric find novel approach to engineering shortage

Here’s a novel idea for addressing the engineer shortage in Australia: recruit more women. While the number of female engineering graduates is increasing, engineering is still a notoriously male-dominated field: only 10% of all engineering jobs and university places are held by women.

That’s where Robogals comes in (no, it’s not a dodgy sequel to the 1987 film). Robogals is an international, student-run organisation founded by Marita Cheng, 2012 Young Australian of the Year, which aims to encourage women to consider a career in engineering.

Schneider Electric has partnered with Robogals - becoming its first corporate partner - to hold a hands-on session to encourage school children to consider careers in engineering. The pilot session gave 50 school children the chance to build and program a robot while learning about how engineering and robotics is everywhere in the world around them.

“We hope the Robogals session helps some of the children build a love of science, and encourages them to be inquisitive and interested in what is happening in the world around them,” said Ivanka Charmings of Clipsal by Schneider Electric. “We want them to have fun, and to leave in awe of what is possible in the world of science and robotics.”

Charmings is the company’s first female engineering chief in 90 years.

“Australia is going to face some unique energy management and environmental challenges in the future, and it’s important we have our brightest and youngest minds engaged in solving them,” Charmings said. “If we inspire even one child to go on to a job in engineering, we will be very pleased!”

UNSW Robogals Marketing Manager Irene Tsimos said engineering is often considered a boring and difficult degree choice, particularly by female students who have limited exposure to the field. “Robogals is a way for us to share our passion for engineering in a fun and interactive way,” Tsimos said.

“This new partnership with Schneider Electric is a way of bridging the gap between school, degree and career,” said Tsimos. “It is a wonderful opportunity for children to see how engineering lessons translate to the real world and inspires our volunteers as well - who are still learning and discovering their potential in the field.”