NAomi Climer
President, Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
Naomi Climer is Immediate Past President, Fellow and Trustee of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). Naomi was listed in the Daily Telegraph and Women’s Engineering Society 50 Most Influential Women in UK Engineering in 2016 and in Computer Weekly’s 50 Most Influential Women in UK IT 2015 and 2016.
We need to make it clear just how widespread the problem is: major companies should publish precise figures about the exact proportion of women they have in their workforces. That might at least get them thinking about where they are going wrong.
What problems do women in your industry face?
Men still hold down 91% of jobs. That is simply not acceptable. Indeed, it is harmful. We cannot hope to recruit the numbers of engineers we need in the near future if we are effectively excluding half the population from taking part. A diverse and inclusive workplace makes it easier for everyone to be at their best.
What needs to change?
We need to change mindsets about how to become an engineer. The traditional degree route remains important – but apprenticeships are an increasingly popular and valid route. We need strong and positive engineering role models who can help us inspire the next generation of engineers. Engineers themselves need to get better at promoting what they do.
Any Advice for Women in Male Dominated Industries?
Keep your options and your mind open. This includes when choosing which subjects to study at school. Pursue the things that interest you, apply your unique strengths to each challenge, make a positive contribution to your team and be ready to enjoy opportunities to learn or experience something new as you go. I was given a piece of advice at the start of my career. It was quite a short and sweet message really: If you can’t please everyone don’t worry – as long as you’re clearly trying to do the right thing for the company and operating with integrity, people will understand.