Early Career Women in Water 2021 Conference (ECWW2021) : Proceedings
Date
2021-03-08
Authors
Advisors
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Publisher
Cranfield University
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Type
Conference proceedings
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Citation
Early Career Women in Water 2020 Conference (ECWW2021): Proceedings. Cranfield Water Science Institute, Cranfield University
Abstract
Description
The 100-year anniversary of Women in Engineering and Sciences in the UK was celebrated throughout 2019. Despite the recognised need for diversification in STEM-related roles,
statistics show that only 12% of professional engineers, 21% of all academic professors and
20% of the UK water sector‟s workforce identify as women. This under-representation of
women has resulted in a loss of talent within these sectors, with diversity recognised as being
crucial for a more holistic approach in research, especially when providing solutions that aim
to serve societies. However, change is on the horizon, and there is a need to continue to
raise the profile of „Women in Water‟ and encourage women to aspire to exciting careers within academia and industry.
The technical sessions of the conference have provided a platform for female early career
researchers and young water professionals to promote their work and research around all
aspects of the water cycle from the catchment to the tap, through to the treatment of
wastewater and governance in water-related industry. Our inspirational, highly successful
„Women in Water‟ keynote speakers Professor Elise Cartmell and Lila Thompson, along with
a specific session on career development and a panel discussion have highlighted the
progress of women in the water sector and the way forward to promote successful careers for
women within the water sector.
With the overall aim of providing solutions for a reliable supply of clean water for people and the environment, the conference included 9 presentations and 24 posters from scientists and
professionals across the UK and 7 from overseas. The engagement of the water sector has
been remarkable with 234 participants and multiple sponsors and institutions involved in
promoting the event.