WOMEN – Women of Manufacturing & ENgineering Launch event
Join us for the official launch of WOMEN – Women of Manufacturing & Engineering, the region’s first initiative created to connect, grow, and retain women in one of the UK’s most male-dominated sectors.
The Advanced Manufacturing Forum is bringing together trailblazers, apprentices, male allies, educators and industry leaders from across the region for a powerful afternoon of inspiration, connection, and action.
Currently, women make up just 26% of the UK manufacturing workforce – a statistic that highlights a lack of representation and a missed opportunity for greater diversity of thought and problem solving across the sector.
Whether you’re on the factory floor, in the boardroom, or just starting out, this space is for you.
WOMEN Official Launch – Women of Manufacturing & Engineering
Wednesday 20th August | 12:00pm Sunderland City Hall Proudly supported by Sunderland City Council
The WOMEN initiative focuses its efforts across three core pillars:
Engage: Inspiring women and girls to build their awareness of the sector and see a future in engineering and manufacturing by increasing visibility, representation, and access to industry role models.
Develop: Supporting career progression through skills development, training, and confidence-building opportunities.
Retain: Promoting inclusive cultures and practical support that helps women thrive, stay and lead in the sector long term through key life stages such as parental leave and menopause.
What to Expect:
- Inspiring speakers from across engineering & manufacturing
- Open networking with allies and changemakers
- A preview of upcoming events & how to get involved
Launching just two days before the giants of women’s world rugby kick off their tournament at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, the city is gearing up to host global sporting heroes, and we’ll be celebrating our own champions – the women driving regional change across manufacturing and engineering.
Let’s change the face of manufacturing, together.
Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today
