Empowering girls to consider a STEM career and join the ever-changing World of Engineering 

March 2021 marked a significant milestone for our Girls Believe Academy, an initiative spearheaded by WeLink UK, our employee-led women's network, and bolstered by our dedicated social value teams. This programme exemplifies Bouygues Energies and Services' unwavering commitment to providing equal opportunities for girls and young women across diverse industries. 

The pervasive underrepresentation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields has long been a matter of concern. Data highlights a disconcerting reality: fewer women pursue advanced studies in these disciplines, resulting in a pronounced gender imbalance within the corresponding industries [AAUW, 2022]. Factors contributing to this imbalance are multifaceted, including inadequate encouragement, gender bias, and outdated perceptions of the predominantly male-driven built environment sector. 

Enter the Girls Believe Academy—a bold and resolute response to break the bias and address the stereotype. Armed with the knowledge that the UK boasts over 320,000 accomplished female construction workers, and with our own female workforce surpassing industry standards, Bouygues Energies & Services representatives and advocates introduce young girls to the vibrant realm of the built environment. They effectively dismantle the notion of a monolithic sector, showcasing the vast array of opportunities it offers individuals of all genders. Through engaging experiences, the Girls Believe Academy empowers girls by revealing how their unique skills and aspirations can be valued within the engineering industry. 

A group of Girls Believe Academy ambassadors visited a school affiliated with the Northern Schools Trust, where they presented to KS3 students. Drawing from their personal experiences in engineering environments, they elucidated various roles and shared insights into their professional journeys. 

Dr. Michaela Mitchell, the Curator of Curiosity at Liverpool Life Sciences UTC and the Studio School, praised the Girls Believe team for their exceptional visit. Over the course of three hours, the team captivated and inspired every girl in KS3, dispelling myths surrounding engineering while fostering an eagerness to pursue fulfilling careers in construction and engineering. The presentation provided an immersive experience brimming with interaction and enthusiasm, greatly enjoyed by the girls. Lively question-and-answer sessions afforded them valuable opportunities to express themselves publicly and delve into the backgrounds and perspectives of the team. 

The engagement did not end there. Following a brief intermission, the Girls Believe team graciously visited the engineering hub, engaging in discussions with staff and Year 12 students regarding ongoing projects. Additionally, they participated in a group discussion with Year 12 engineering girls, yielding fruitful outcomes. This collaborative effort made a profound impact, leaving a lasting impression and fostering aspirations for future partnerships between Liverpool Life Sciences UTC, the Studio School, and Bouygues Energies & Services. 

The success of the Girls Believe Academy serves as a testament to the transformative power of empowering girls and young women. By dismantling barriers, dispelling misconceptions, and showcasing the vast potential within the engineering industry, this initiative paves the way toward a more inclusive and diverse future. 

Together, we wholeheartedly believe in the limitless potential of every girl.