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Celebrating Henrietta Heald: Champion of Women in Engineering

CL Taylor

Updated: 5 days ago



In a world where the voices of women in traditionally male-dominated fields are often overlooked, Henrietta Heald stands out as a beacon of inspiration and advocacy. As an accomplished author and a passionate promoter of women in engineering, Heald's work not only highlights the contributions of women to the field but also serves as a rallying cry for future generations to break barriers and pursue their passions.


Listen to Henrietta celebrating early trailblazers





Magnificent Women Podcast Mini Series:

Trailblazers in Industry and Politics introduces the extraordinary

individuals who came together in Britain after the Great War with a mission to transform

the lives of working women. In 1919 they set up the world’s first professional organisation to fight for equal employment rights: the Women’s Engineering Society (WES). This was followed in 1924 by the Electrical Association for Women (EAW). The trailblazers featured in this series are • Rachel Parsons, • Margaret Rhondda, • Laura Annie Willson, • Margaret Partridge and • Caroline Haslett.





Magnificent Women: A Celebration of Female Trailblazers

One of Heald's notable contributions to the discourse around women in engineering is her book, "Magnificent Women and Their Revolutionary Machines." This work delves into the lives of female engineers who have made groundbreaking advancements, showcasing their innovations and contributions across various sectors. The book not only celebrates these women but also serves as an educational resource, illustrating the historical context in which they worked and the challenges they faced.


Heald’s narrative style brings these stories to life, making them accessible and engaging for readers of all ages. She emphasises the importance of representation in engineering and technology, encouraging young women to envision themselves in roles that have traditionally been occupied by men.



Inspiring Author Henrietta Heald


Henrietta Heald is a British author known for her insightful writing on the history and contributions of women in various fields, particularly engineering. Her work is characterised by a commitment to uncovering the stories of remarkable women who have made significant impacts in their industries, often against the odds. Through her books, Heald aims to educate and inspire, shedding light on the often untold narratives of women who have played pivotal roles in shaping the world we live in.


Henrietta is the author of Magnificent Women and Their Revolutionary

Machines (Unbound, 2021) and William Armstrong, Magician of the North  (McNidder & Grace, 2012).





Promoting Women in Engineering



Heald's advocacy extends beyond her writing. She actively participates in discussions and initiatives aimed at promoting women in engineering and related fields. Her work aligns with broader movements to increase gender diversity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), recognising that diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions and advancements.


Through her lectures, workshops, and participation in conferences, Heald engages with students, educators, and professionals, fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive in engineering. By sharing stories of successful female engineers, she aims to dismantle stereotypes and encourage young girls to pursue careers in these fields.


The Impact of Heald’s Work


Henrietta Heald’s contributions are significant not only for the narratives she shares but also for the cultural shift she helps to foster. By highlighting the achievements of women in engineering, she encourages a new generation to explore careers in STEM, ensuring that the future is more inclusive and representative. Her work serves as a reminder that history is filled with incredible women whose achievements deserve recognition and celebration.


As we look towards the future, the importance of role models like Henrietta Heald cannot be overstated. Her dedication to promoting women in engineering and her commitment to sharing their stories will undoubtedly inspire countless individuals to pursue their dreams and break down barriers.


Considering a Career in Engineering?

Are you considering a career in engineering but unsure where to start? Our latest PDF guide, "Empowering Women in Engineering," offers valuable insights, resources, and tips to help you navigate your journey in this dynamic field. From understanding various engineering disciplines to finding mentorship opportunities, this guide is designed to inspire and equip aspiring female engineers. Click the link below to download your free copy and take the first step toward a rewarding career in engineering! >>


Advocacy for Women

In conclusion, Henrietta Heald's advocacy for women in engineering is a vital part of the ongoing conversation about gender equality in STEM fields. Her writings and initiatives inspire us to celebrate the achievements of women and encourage future generations to pursue their passions in engineering and technology.


Are you inspired to be an engineer?

For advice on education and careers in engineering, the first port of call is the Women’s Engineering Society (WES). https://www.wes.org.uk


The Royal Academy of Engineering website is a mine of information about educational opportunities, https://raeng.org.uk/education-and-skills <https://raeng.org.uk/education-and-skills> . See especially This is Engineering https://raeng.org.uk/education-and-skills/this-is-engineering


Here are some other organisations that do great work to inform and inspire women and girls in the engineering sector.


Arkwright Engineering Scholarships  https://www.arkwright.org.uk

Institution of Civil Engineers  https://www.ice.org.uk/what-is-civil-engineering

This Is Engineering  https://thisisengineering.org.uk

Tomorrow’s Engineers  https://www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk


Photos Thanks to This is Engineering image library.



 
 
 

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