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Marking International Women in Engineering Day

Today, Plessey is proud to be recognising International Women in Engineering Day by reflecting on both the future of engineering and the culture we continue to build within our business.

International Women in Engineering Day provides an important opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women across the engineering sector, while also recognising the continued importance of representation, inclusion and access to opportunities.

This year, our activities focused on two key areas: inspiring future talent and encouraging meaningful conversations across our workforce.

Supporting Futures

Throughout the day, our ambassadors have been supporting the YMCA Engineering Her Future careers day, helping inspire young women to explore the variety of roles available within engineering.

Encouraging more girls to consider careers in engineering remains vital to strengthening the future talent pipeline. By engaging with future engineers early and increasing visibility of the opportunities available, we can help build a more diverse and representative industry.

Creating Space for Conversations

Alongside supporting the pipeline, we also wanted to create space internally for meaningful conversation.

This afternoon, colleagues from across Plessey came together for cream teas and conversations open to all employees. Using prompts and starter topics, teams explored themes around the experiences of women in engineering, workplace inclusion, and the small but meaningful actions that can help create positive change.

Importantly, these conversations included voices from across the business. Building a more inclusive engineering sector is not a conversation for women alone—it benefits from the involvement, perspectives and engagement of everyone.

The session encouraged open discussion, shared learning and thoughtful reflection, with colleagues contributing ideas and insights on how we can continue improving as a workplace.

“What stood out for me was so many colleagues—men and women alike—actively taking part in the conversation and contributing their perspectives.”

Looking Ahead

Creating a more inclusive engineering workplace is an ongoing journey. It requires sustained effort and a culture where people feel valued, supported and able to contribute fully.

International Women in Engineering Day is an important moment to celebrate progress, recognise contributions and reflect on the work still ahead.

We’re proud to support initiatives that help inspire future engineers while continuing to create meaningful conversations within our own business.

Together, these actions help us lead with purpose, grow a more diverse and capable future workforce, and build trust through an inclusive culture where everyone can contribute and thrive.

Plessey Supports Tech Frontier Work Experience

Plessey took part in the recent Tech Frontier work experience initiative, engaging with students from several schools across Plymouth.

Delivered in partnership with the Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Careers Hub, Tech Frontier is a two-year programme designed to increase awareness of careers in digital and technology, particularly for young people without access to industry networks, role models, or opportunities. As one of five programmes of its kind nationally, it helps broaden access to the sector across the region.

During the visit, 30 students were introduced to 6 different employers within the technology industry. Gaining first-hand insight into the work taking place at Plessey, through real-world examples and discussions with the team, they developed a clearer understanding of the skills, pathways, and possibilities a career in tech can offer.

This activity forms part of a wider programme of hands-on, project-based work experience taking place in Plymouth this June for Year 10 students. One of the flagship experiences, Mission to Mars, is a week-long challenge at The Market Hall in Plymouth. Delivered by Tech Cornwall, the programme brings students together to build and programme autonomous robots, tackling complex challenges and developing skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

Early engagement helps build awareness and confidence in future careers within STEM. Programmes like Tech Frontier also provide an opportunity to share how work in photonic devices and systems translates into real-world applications.

“It was valuable to work with engaged students and support a programme that broadens access to tech careers. Unlike a typical work experience, where we would only engage with 3-5 students, Tech Frontier lets more students engage directly and experience the industry first-hand.” – Marie French, Learning & Development Coordinator