Key numbers
Key numbers
Overcoming barriers: the challenge
Engineering and construction have traditionally been male-dominated industries, often perceived as inaccessible or unwelcoming to young women. This has contributed to a significant gender imbalance and ongoing skills shortages exacerbated by an aging workforce. Outdated stereotypes about STEM careers continue to limit girls’ aspirations and awareness of the diverse opportunities available. Bridging this opportunity gap and attracting female talent into these sectors is a critical challenge facing both the industry and wider society.
Inspiring change: The Girls Believe Academy initiative
In response, Equans launched the Girls Believe Academy (GBA) in 2021, a robust outreach programme aimed at inspiring and empowering girls to explore STEM pathways. The initiative actively engages students through:
- Interactive hands-on workshops designed to spark curiosity and demonstrate real-world applications of STEM.
- Industry insight sessions providing visibility into the breadth of careers within science, engineering, and the built environment.
- A diverse network of 70+ Equans ambassadors who serve as visible female role models, sharing personal experiences and encouraging inclusion.
- Partnerships with 40+ schools, including client partnerships, focusing strongly on sustained engagement with students, particularly at key stages such as Year 9.
- Offering work placement opportunities to give practical experience and further nurture interest in STEM careers.
This comprehensive approach not only challenges stereotypes but also actively creates pathways that support girls to envision and pursue futures in STEM.
Transformative results: the impact
Since its inception, the Girls Believe Academy has reached over 5,000 students across the UK, significantly expanding awareness and interest in STEM among young women. Key impacts include:
Building a more inclusive future
The Girls Believe Academy is more than just an outreach initiative. It is a vital step towards tackling the industry's skills gap, building a diverse pipeline of future talent, and fostering an equitable environment where young women see engineering and construction as attainable and rewarding career choices. Through committed community outreach and the powerful example set by dedicated ambassadors, Equans is championing meaningful change - empowering young women today to become the STEM leaders of tomorrow.
Our expertise
Equans supports businesses, communities and the public sector by mobilising its expertise to provide low-carbon energy solutions, offer cutting-edge technical and FM services and transformative regeneration across the UK & Ireland.
