International Women in Engineering Day: 23 June 2026

Today is International Women in Engineering Day 2026, and at HSM we’re showing our support by celebrating and showcasing the wonderful women in our team!

The day is an international awareness campaign that celebrates the achievements of women in engineering and encourages more women to enter the field. The Women's Engineering Society founded National Women in Engineering Day in 2014 to celebrate its 95th anniversary.

In 2017, the campaign became international for the first time due to the interest and enthusiasm developed by the international audience, and International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) was born, enabling the celebration of women in engineering to become global.

Women engineers around the world are still hugely under-represented, with 2021 figures indicating that in the UK only 16.5% of engineers are women. INWED plays a vital role in encouraging more young women and girls to pursue engineering careers.

This year’s theme is #EngineeringIntelligence. The theme is designed to shine a light on the incredible synergy between human ingenuity and the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and advanced technology within the engineering sector.

Meet our wonderful women…

Jolene Towner
Accounts and HR Manager

“I’ve found it incredibly rewarding working in an engineering company. Watching large-scale projects come to life and being part of the team that supports them from the financial side is exciting and fulfilling. It’s a great feeling to contribute to something so impactful, even from a non-technical role.

One of the biggest challenges for me hasn’t been the work itself, but the inner conflict many women face - wondering if we’re doing enough at home while managing careers. But I’m proud of what I’ve built, and I’m fortunate to work alongside a fantastic, supportive team where everyone plays a vital role in our shared success. It’s a great reminder that it takes all of us to bring these projects to life.”

Megan Link
Accounts & HR Assistant

“I started my career as an Accounts Apprentice 12 years ago. During this time I’ve gained experience across all aspects of finance from invoicing to management accounting. The last nine years of my career have been spent in the manufacturing industry; experience that is proving invaluable to my role here.

HSM is a great place to work as it’s super friendly. It’s great to walk into the workshop and see everyone working hard, fabricating products using exceptional machinery, extensive knowledge and a range of skills - that’s where the magic happens.”

 

Bobby-Leigh Major
Cleaning and Fettling Bay Operative

“I’ve worked for HSM for two and a half years. During that time, I’ve gained a lot of experience, developed my skills, and really enjoyed being part of the team. One of the most rewarding parts of my role is the opportunity to learn new things and be part of a supportive team. I enjoy the variety of the work and the sense of achievement that comes from getting a job done well.

I enjoy working in the engineering sector because every day is different and there are always opportunities to learn. Being a woman in engineering feels empowering, and it’s great to be part of an industry where more women are becoming involved and building successful careers.”

Hannah Stenning
Accounts & Admin

“HSM is a very supportive company, always available to listen and they provide the Employee Assistance Programme which is very helpful too. Everyone is very friendly here and always willing to help - we are a happy and hardworking team! To any women considering a career in engineering, I’d say: go for it!”

 

 

 

 

Mo Cleife
Quality Inspector

“I worked for HSM from 2022-2024 but then left and retired shortly after. When I heard that the company was really busy earlier this year and in need of an extra pair of hands, I offered to come out of retirement and rejoin the team!"

 

 

 

 

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