University marks Women in Engineering Day with industry event

The University is marking International Women in Engineering Day (23 June) by bringing together leading organisations in building services engineering to champion diversity and showcase collaborative approaches to decarbonisation.

The event, hosted at the University, united professionals, academics and students for a programme of technical presentations, expert talks and an exclusive site visit to a pioneering decarbonisation project delivered in partnership with Vital Energi, Couch Perry Wilkes and BMSi.

A key focus of the event was supporting women in the engineering sector, highlighting the importance of creating inclusive pathways into the profession and enabling more women to join, progress and lead within the industry.

Championing women in engineering

The event supported the work of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Women in Building Services Engineering (WiBSE) network, which is committed to inspiring the next generation and building a strong, inclusive support network across the sector.

Through initiatives such as this, WiBSE showcases diverse role models, creates meaningful networking opportunities and provides a platform for knowledge sharing and career development.

Narinder Rehal, Director of 1313 and Board Member of WiBSE, said:

“It’s been fantastic to meet so many women from diverse backgrounds at our Walsall Campus and to showcase this decarbonisation project. However, there is still more to do to change perceptions of what can be seen as a traditionally male-dominated industry. In my role, I am always proud to support and champion women to take on leading roles in construction projects. The industry is evolving, and it is vital that we continue to support and uplift one another to drive lasting change.”

Sophie Drinkwater, from Briggs & Forrester, added:

“The industry is changing for women, and we’re seeing more female apprentices coming through, which is really encouraging. I would say to any woman considering a career in construction that there are far more opportunities than you might think, and not all roles are site-based. There are so many exciting pathways within the industry including my own role in marketing.”

Showcasing innovation in sustainability

Alongside its focus on diversity, the event also explored practical strategies for reducing emissions, integrating sustainable technologies and overcoming the real-world challenges of delivering large-scale, low-carbon projects.

Attendees were given a first-hand look at the University’s own decarbonisation initiative through a guided site visit, demonstrating how collaborative, multidisciplinary expertise can transform existing infrastructure into more energy-efficient systems.

Speakers included Charlotte Baker, Sustainability Manager at the University, alongside representatives from industry partners, who shared technical knowledge and project insights.

Charlotte Baker, Sustainability Manager at the University of Wolverhampton, said:

“International Women in Engineering Day is an important opportunity to recognise the contribution of women across the sector and to inspire future generations. Events such as this demonstrate the power of collaboration; not only in advancing decarbonisation, but also in creating an environment where everyone feels supported, valued and empowered to succeed.”

The University continues to work closely with industry partners to support the transition to net zero while ensuring engineering careers remain accessible, inclusive and representative of the communities they serve.