Working in technology, engineering and some forms of science have always been seen as jobs for the men. There are numerous reasons why this has been the case but women are now being strongly encouraged to take up technical degrees and apprenticeships. Today more women than ever are finding UK jobs in areas that were once traditionally male dominated.
Women do outnumber men in some science degree subjects. The ratio between men and women taking degrees in biology and medicine are fairly even, however, women take the majority of nursing degrees which is a traditional female-supportive role. In medicine, although there are many women doctors, a female surgeon is still unusual. In professions involving non medical forms of science, maths and engineering, women remain in the minority.
There are many women working in UK jobs in technology. However, many of these jobs are at a lower level and it seems that some women find the closed male shop of the environment difficult to deal with. Many have found it impossible to progress up the career ladder.
Women who work in engineering can also have a difficult time when working with men who often regard their workplace as being a men only club. A woman working in engineering may have to be strong both physically and mentally to be able to cope with the work and the casual sexism of her male colleagues.
This situation will no doubt improve in the future as more women move into working in UK jobs in science, technology and engineering, and once they are no longer such a rarity. But for now, many women working in traditional male environments are having to cope with the demands of their professions and overcome the prejudice of their colleagues.
