Did you know that just 16.5% of engineers are women, according to International Women in Engineering Day (INWED)? To increase visibility on women engineers and draw attention to the exciting career prospects they have, INWED has chosen the theme #ImagineTheFuture for 2022.
At OPSWAT, we see every day how having a diverse engineering team improves our products and solutions so that we can deliver a better protection system to our clients. It’s clear that women engineers are not only making strong advancements in our company but will continue to drive innovation in the cybersecurity industry overall.
To celebrate International Women in Engineering Day and #ImagineTheFuture, we spoke with five women engineers here at OPSWAT to learn more about their motivations, careers, and thoughts on excelling as an engineer.
Why did you choose to become an engineer?
My father exposed me at an early age to technology and working with computers. I always had a knack for navigating through software, and by high school, I knew I wanted to go to college for Computer Science. By college, I knew it was going to be in software development. Everything else just fell into place.
What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a woman thinking of starting a career in engineering?
Advocate for yourself. Be confident. Keep moving forward.
Why did you choose to become an engineer?
When I was in high school, Computer Science was trending, and it was easy to find an engineering job. It’s also about math and logical thinking, which I am good at.
In your opinion, why is it important that more women take up engineering?
To make things good, we need balance. Women and men have different perspectives on the same challenge. With more women taking up engineering, they can contribute their perspectives and ideas to build a product that will better serve users. It also creates a more creative, balanced workplace.
On International Women in Engineering Day, what is the most important message you want to send to young women thinking about their careers?
Nothing can stop you, so don’t be shy. Just do what you want and keep up with continuous training.
Why did you choose engineering as a career?
I think this profession will become more and more important in the future. I am also very motivated by the fact that I can always learn new technologies.
Why do you think it is important for more women to study engineering?
In my opinion, there is no difference between male and female engineers. Stereotypes are another reason why it is important for more women to become engineers.
What is the most important piece of advice you would give to a woman who is considering a career in engineering?
Be proud to be an engineer.
On International Women in Engineering Day, what is the most important message you would like to send to young women thinking about their career?
Don't think that your skills are worth less than if you were a man.
What is it like to work as a female engineer at OPSWAT?
Super. I've never felt treated differently. Everyone is equal here.
Why did you choose to become an engineer?
I didn't choose the engineering life – the engineering life chose me! Jokes aside, after I didn’t get into the university of arts, I tried my other favourite subject: science. I always had a sense for math and information technology, so I thought I'd give it a shot, and have had no regrets ever since.
In your opinion, why is it important that more women take up engineering?
My opinion may not be shared by all, but I don't think the importance is on having more women among engineers. What matters for me is that I should work with skilled people regardless of their gender.
On International Women in Engineering Day, what is the most important message you want to send to young women thinking about their careers?
If they think they'd like it, then I say go and get it! Don't give up after a few initial obstacles!
How do you like being a woman engineer working at OPSWAT?
It's the same as for men, just with less dedicated restrooms in the Hungary office. 😄
Why did you choose to become an engineer?
I chose to study engineering in an accidental way. At first, I didn't think I would like the IT field and never thought I would become a software testing engineer until my third year of college. When I found I had the qualities of a tester, I started to learn about this field and looked for a software company offering an internship. I have been a software tester for 5 years now.
In your opinion, why is it important that more women take up engineering?
Society is becoming more equal, and women are valued more, especially in this field where the IT industry develops rapidly and has many applications in life.
Women who study and work in the IT industry are often appreciated and receive good remuneration. The fact that women study IT shows equality in the industry, and of course, when you are good at something you are likely to find a job in that strength.
With a series of advantages over men in terms of natural language skills, synthetic and creative thinking, good problem-solving, the ability to multi-task, etc., women can fully utilize their strengths to pursue the IT industry.
How do you like being a woman engineer working at OPSWAT?
OPSWAT is a dynamic working environment and women are often prioritized, valued, and receive many benefits, especially women's holidays.
I really like the programs organized by the company, the gifts on special occasions, especially the employee care program during the pandemic.
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Gender equality is not just a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world. At OPSWAT, we strive to build a workplace where all genders are treated equally.
You are trusted to do your job.
You have true ownership of the job you work on – your team determines how to get the job done while the Company plays a supporting role to provide the necessary environments and resources.
You get trained and developed.
OPSWAT has built comprehensive training programs with the goal of supporting employees to be successful in both their current job and future roles. We will mentor and train you to make you successful in your job.
Your voice is heard
OPSWAT encourages open and direct communications between all employees regardless of positions, roles or departments. Regular and occasional meetings provide an opportunity for staff at all levels to meet and openly discuss ideas, opinions or even concerns.
Join us in our mission to protect the world’s critical infrastructure from malware and zero-day attacks. Visit OPSWAT careers page to find the right fit for you: https://www.opswat.com/careers
