NSW universities make gender equity pledge

University representatives joined industry leaders, teachers, students and community members at the ‘Engineering the Future: Aligning Action; Accelerating Equity’ symposium on 7 July.

Led by UNSW, the event was co-developed with the University of Sydney, Western Sydney University, the University of Newcastle, Macquarie University, the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the University of Wollongong. 

The symposium aimed to align institutional efforts, share insights and strengthen collaboration across the sector. Attendees explored practical ways to improve inclusivity in engineering education, research and career pathways.

Working together and sharing perspectives

The event opened with a panel discussion, moderated by Vice-President (Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement) Professor the Hon. Verity Firth AM, on how universities can work together to improve gender equity and create stronger connections with schools, industry and community organisations.

“No single university can solve this challenge on its own. The real opportunity is in bringing everyone together to build approaches that have an impact across the sector,” said Prof. Firth.
 

Panels and presentations explored progress across the engineering sector, ongoing challenges and opportunities for collaboration. There was cross-sector representation, including presentations from students and high school principals, insight from CEO of Engineers Australia Romilly Madew, as well as from prominent equity organisations SAGE and Champions of Change. 

Attendees then split into smaller workgroups for a series of World Café discussions, sharing ideas on school engagement, student experiences, workplace inclusion and staff development.

“Through the World Café discussions, clear priorities emerged around engaging students earlier, strengthening support throughout their education journey and ensuring greater accountability for equity outcomes across the sector,” said Faculty of Engineering Deputy Dean (Societal Impact & Translation) Professor Rita Henderson.
 

The pledge

The symposium concluded with a collective pledge from engineering deans of the participating universities, reflecting their shared commitment.

“By bringing universities, industry, schools and community organisations together, we can build relationships, share knowledge and identify practical actions to significantly improve gender equity,” said Faculty of Engineering Dean Professor Julien Epps.

To see more photos from the event, visit the online gallery.

To learn more about the future of engineering, listen to the Engineering the Future podcast series.