SheCanEngineer is a dynamic charity working to shift the balance in the UK engineering sector. Since its founding, it has developed a strong reputation for promoting gender equality and diversity in engineering. Here are five things worth knowing about its mission, its people, and the impact it is having.

1. It Began as a Volunteer Initiative in London

Founded in 2016, SheCanEngineer started as a grassroots initiative run by volunteers in London. Its initial aim was to raise awareness about the underrepresentation of women in engineering. Today, it is a registered charity operating across the UK, still driven by a team of passionate volunteers working to create opportunities for women in STEM careers.

2. It Hosts Annual Events to Mark International Women in Engineering Day

Each year, SheCanEngineer celebrates International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) with high-profile events. The 2024 reception, held at BAFTA Piccadilly, featured panel discussions and fireside conversations exploring key themes such as workplace confidence and allyship. These events are inclusive, free to attend, and designed to welcome attendees at all career stages.

3. It Partners with Industry to Promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The charity works alongside organisations and employers to support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in engineering. One major collaboration is with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). These partnerships involve sharing inclusive hiring practices, providing speakers for industry events, and supporting workplaces to become more representative.

4. It Is Led by Engineers Making National Impact

Co-founder Maira Bana, who works in computational engineering, was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the 2025 New Year Honours for her work in promoting diversity in the sector. She is part of a wider team of professionals across fields such as aerospace and process engineering who lead the charity’s activities and vision.

5. Its Vision Is to Create an Inclusive Future for Engineering

SheCanEngineer runs outreach programmes, workshops, and school talks to help young people see engineering as a viable and exciting career path. The charity aims to remove the barriers that have historically discouraged women and girls from entering the profession, while making the sector more accessible and inclusive for everyone.