Promoting gender equality in manufacturing is essential for industry growth. In March every year, people worldwide recognise International Women’s Day (IWD). This global event celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Furthermore, international frameworks like the ISO 9001 quality guidelines help ensure fair operational practices across industrial operations.

The UN’s theme for International Women’s Day 2023 is ‘DigitALL: innovation and technology for gender equality’. This topic aligns directly with the 67th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW-67). Specifically, CSW-67 focuses on harnessing digital education to achieve gender equality and empower women.

Because this year’s IWD event focuses on women in tech-based roles, many industries are addressing representation. Consequently, electronics manufacturing is taking active steps to improve equality.

Indeed, women remain significantly underrepresented in the manufacturing sector. So, what causes this inequality? Moreover, how will addressing it help fill critical skills gaps during this technological revolution?

Manufacturing has traditionally been a male-dominated sector. Although gender balance is improving, significant progress is still required.

For example, UNIDO data shows that women make up only around 37% of manufacturing workers globally.

However, despite limited representation, 75% of women would recommend a career in manufacturing. So, what stops more girls from joining this field?

A major factor is the shortage of female mentors. This gap deters women from entering tech careers, tipping the balance toward men. Furthermore, only about 25% of manufacturing leaders are female.

Addressing gender equality in manufacturing is therefore crucial for electronics companies. This imbalance slows inclusivity while worsening labor shortages.

In fact, filling skills gaps remains a primary challenge for 2023. Demand for electronics escalates faster than many developers can handle.

Without action, the manufacturing sector faces a global shortage of 7.9 million workers by 2030. This could cost the UK economy $17.5bn in lost output.

Therefore, encouraging more women to train as engineers is essential. But how can the industry achieve this goal?

Increasing female representation starts with inspiring talent early.

Early intervention and education are key. Girls are often discouraged from STEM subjects at school, affecting career interest later.

However, our digital world requires professionals with strong technical knowledge. These capabilities are built in the classroom.

Encouraging girls to pursue manufacturing careers requires proactive effort. It is the responsibility of all electronics companies to support gender equality in manufacturing.

This action can take many forms, including school outreach and fair hiring practices. Additionally, companies can provide mentors for young female professionals.

Ultimately, being proactive is critical for meeting social responsibility targets.

As a global EMS provider, EC Electronics understands the need to address female representation within manufacturing. We fully support making positive and lasting changes.

We spoke with Sarah Pougher, a senior buyer in our purchasing team, about her industry experience…

‘While the sector remains male-dominated, my six years at EC Electronics showed shifting balance as more women joined’, Sarah shared.

She added: ‘Three years ago, I helped set up our Netherlands office and manage our European supply chain. This experience enabled career growth, and I hope more women access similar opportunities’.

EC Electronics works hard to help our team thrive. We believe talented staff should be recognized and rewarded. Consequently, we look forward to celebrating female achievements and welcoming new women into our team.

Interested in a career in electronics manufacturing? Get in touch to learn more about working with us.