Introducing Interconnect: the network for women studying science, engineering, technology & the built environment in Scotland

Interconnect is a 3 year project which is developing a network for women studying science, engineering, technology and the built environment in Scotland. To achieve this, we are working with universities, colleges, students, students associations, employers, qualified women and professional bodies.

What is the need?

Women students make up only 16% of the engineering and technology students in Scottish universities [1], and in colleges the gender segregation is even greater. As a result women in these subjects may be isolated.

Research demonstrates the importance of social integration in student retention. Krause [2] found that students are more likely to reach graduation when they form strong relationships within their peer groups. Encouraging social interaction and involvement in student groups, societies and social events will aid student retention. This is critical in an area where women are not being retained.

Research carried out at Edinburgh Napier University [3] indicated that women students in male dominated subjects want:

• social contact and support;
•  contact with recent graduates and qualified women; and,
•  careers advice and links with industry.

Even after graduation, many women struggle to maintain a career in SET. Having a well-established social network of like-minded peers, and meeting women who can act as role models and mentors early in their career, may help women sustain longterm SET careers…