Female Engineers

Abstract

Under representation of women in the hard sciences has led to research on the gender gap in mathematics achievement. Data show that women are almost equally represented in mathematics but are underrepresented in engineering. Thus the assumption is that mathematics is not the only factor that influences women's choice of engineering. Interviews of 32 engineers (women and men) examine the career socialization of female engineers. Findings show that women chose engineering because of challenge and interest and a strong parental influence. They liked their work, but they experienced difficulties because of gender discrimination, occupational requirements, and the parenthood-career dilemma. This resulted in their wish to make a career change, in spite of their job satisfaction, to occupations that are more emotionally rewarding and that would give them more control over their working hours.