Engineering Her Future
Tamar Crossings and YMCA Plymouth Jointly Host Annual ‘Engineering Her Future’ Event to Inspire Next Generation of Women in STEM
Recognising Plymouth’s status as one of the South West’s leading centres for engineering and marine innovation, Tamar Crossings and YMCA Plymouth are set to host this year’s “Engineering Her Future” event at the Tamar Bridge on Tuesday, 23rd June.
The “Engineering Her Future” event, now in its fourth year, will see around 250 young women from local schools and colleges visit the Bridging the Tamar Visitor and Learning Centre. The collaborative initiative aims to connect students with leading STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) businesses, as well as educational and training providers.
The event takes place against a backdrop of continued underrepresentation of women in engineering careers across the UK, with women currently accounting for around 17% of the engineering and technology workforce.
Participating organisations this year include Babcock, the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), Plymouth City Council, and City College Plymouth. Through hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and conversations with women already working in engineering, construction, infrastructure, and marine industries, students will gain insight into the many career pathways available to them locally.
The day is jointly organised and delivered by the Learning Centre and YMCA Plymouth. It is held as part of International Women in Engineering Day, a global celebration dedicated to raising the profile of women in the field and honouring those who are changing the industry. With Plymouth home to major engineering, defence, infrastructure, and marine employers, organisers say inspiring the next generation of engineers is vital to the city’s future workforce and economic growth. By hosting the event at one of Plymouth’s most recognisable engineering landmarks, the Tamar Bridge, organisers hope students will see first-hand how engineering shapes the city around them and the opportunities it can offer for their own futures.
Coral Jonas, Bridge Manager at Tamar Crossings, said:
“We are delighted to be partnering with YMCA Plymouth for the fourth year running to host this important event at Tamar Crossings. We really value our partnership and ongoing relationship with YMCA, and through this collaboration we can help highlight the essential future careers that will be vital to the growth of Plymouth and to the assets we look after in the area.
Through the visitor centre, our work with schools, and partnerships such as this, we hope to continue inspiring the next generation to explore opportunities in STEAM careers. By helping young people understand the role engineering and innovation play in shaping Plymouth and the wider region, we hope this event will encourage more young women to see a future for themselves in these industries.”
Sarah Newberry, event organiser from YMCA Plymouth, added:
"YMCA Plymouth has been proudly supporting young people across our city for over 150 years, providing them with the vital resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to thrive. Events like 'Engineering Her Future' are a cornerstone of that mission and a testament to what we can achieve through strong local partnerships.
They play a crucial role in raising the aspirations of young women by opening doors to new experiences, building their confidence, and showing them what they can achieve in STEM careers. It is about empowering the next generation to aim high and realise their full potential."
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) South West is the headline sponsor for the Engineering her Future event. Miranda Housden, regional director, ICE South West said:
"The visibility of female engineers makes a huge difference. That’s why the Engineering her Future, taking place on International Women in Engineering Day 2026, is such a great opportunity for female students to meet women engineers and find out about the exciting opportunities within civil engineering.
“At the ICE, we’re committed to inspiring the next generation and showcasing diverse role models. By working together, we can build a more inclusive profession, something society urgently needs if we’re to address skills shortages and meet the challenges of the future.”