International Women in Engineering Day recognizes the progress and achievements of female engineers across specialties. At V3, we’re proud to employ more female engineers than the industry average and love celebrating the diversity that helps make us a Best Firm to Work For!
Engineering Stronger Communities
Careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) provide exciting opportunities for women to showcase their talents and skills. The complexity, discovery, and prestige inherent to engineering presents a rewarding job path that benefits not only the engineer but her community as a whole.
As reported by the Society of Women Engineers, many female engineers choose this career to:
- Solve challenging problems
- Collaborate with talented colleagues
- Find financial success
- Do meaningful and varied work
Social responsibility is a major driving factor for female engineers, with many entering the field to strengthen their communities and make a difference in people’s lives. In fact, women are more likely to cite “community impact” as a job influence over men.
“I knew I wanted a career that coupled my passions for sustainability and service. Environmental engineering seemed to encapsulate these two values perfectly. I was also really drawn to the collaboration that is required within the engineering field and the dynamic challenges it brings. I was an active participant in science fairs growing up and I remember walking up and down the isles in awe of the ingenuity of my peers. I found comfort in the idea that we are all unique in our thoughts, but capable of sharing in our experiences. If we can draw on these two facts, I really feel there is not much we cannot solve. And for that, I found engineering really inviting.”
Jamie Bradbury, Civil Designer, Columbus Region
Female Engineers Continue to Rise
Women have made significant strides in STEM-focused roles over the past several decades, seeing higher graduation and employment rates in these fields than ever before. In 1970, only 8% of STEM positions were held by women, whereas today’s average is 34%.
Still, according to the Harvard Business Review, engineering continues to be the most male-dominated profession in the United States, with women making up only 16.5% of the engineering workforce. Within that population, 35% are environmental engineers and 17% are civil engineers.
As women claim more space in engineering, their contributions enhance and advance a variety of STEM-based fields, inspiring others to join the cause.
“I have been very fortunate that my projects have been incredibly varied. They have included: a professional sports stadium, a snake habitat, a tollway bridge, a 120-acre forest preserve, ADA ramps, miles of sewers and a reservoir expansion. I have prepared designs for both the private and public sectors and performed reviews for municipalities. I have so many great project opportunities at V3 that I would not have had anywhere else.”
Heidi Voirol, P.E., Senior Project Manager, LEED AP BD+C, V3 Board of Directors
Diverse Teams Create Inspired Results
Curriculum reform, gender equity initiatives, and shifting societal norms are slowly breaking down barriers. Creating spaces where all engineers enjoy equal respect and opportunity is the path to reducing obstacles to success.
At V3, we are led by five core values, with “dedication to employees” being a driving force in everything we do. Our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging committee focuses on multiple initiatives throughout the year to foster a sense of belonging and ensure all team members have a safe, unbiased, and empowering work environment.
Our engineering team is 26% female—10% higher than the national average. We believe that bringing together diverse skillsets, viewpoints, and life experiences creates more holistic results, helping us solve client problems while challenging and improving our team.
Further, we actively coordinate growth opportunities for women in engineering through multiple events and opportunities, such as our annual “Women and Wine” industry networking events where connections and mentoring relationships are formed and enhanced. We encourage participation at leadership levels within organizations such as CREW (Women in Commercial Real Estate), Women Construction Leaders, and more.
“What I enjoy about V3 is the people and the atmosphere. I left a big company where I was just a number and am glad that I did!”
Deborah Kaleikini-Johnson, Project Manager, Edmonton Region
Our dedication to employees has made us a 2023 Best Firm to Work For! We’re always welcoming talented applicants from all backgrounds to join our team; check out our current engineering opportunities.