Women in Engineering: Gender Equality Challenges

This lecture focuses on the challenges and statistics surrounding gender equality in engineering, particularly at EPFL. It begins with an introduction highlighting the significance of International Women's Rights Day. The discussion features a panel of alumni who share insights on the representation of women in engineering fields, showcasing data from the Alumni Career Survey. Key topics include the evolution of female graduates, employment rates, and salary disparities between genders. The panelists emphasize the importance of negotiating salaries, building confidence, and the role of mentorship in overcoming systemic inequalities. They propose solutions to reduce disparities, such as promoting equal pay, increasing parental leave, and enhancing visibility for women in leadership roles. The lecture concludes with a call to action for both individuals and organizations to address these issues collaboratively, ensuring a more equitable future for women in engineering.