Women engineers play a vital role in the internet and telecommunications industry, not only by contributing technical expertise but also by bringing fresh perspectives to problem-solving, innovation, and team dynamics. The sector is rapidly evolving, with emerging technologies like 5G, full-fibre broadband, and IoT reshaping how we live and work. To keep pace with these changes and ensure the industry reflects much needed diversity, it’s crucial that women are represented at every level.
Moreover, visible female role models help inspire future generations. When young women see engineers who look like them, it challenges outdated stereotypes and opens doors to careers they may not have previously considered. The younger generation will realise anything is possible and no careers are out of reach.
Women in Engineering in 2025: Progress, Challenges & New Voices
Despite ongoing efforts to promote gender diversity, women remain significantly underrepresented in the UK’s internet, telecoms, and wider engineering sectors. According to data from the Institution of Telecommunications Professionals (ITP), just 16.9% of the overall engineering and technology workforce is female. When focusing solely on engineering roles, that figure drops to 12.4%, with a low 5% of women holding leadership positions.
By contrast, women make up 56% of the workforce across all other occupations which highlights just how far the engineering and telecoms industries still have to go in terms of inclusion and balance.
Although the gender gap persists, it’s important to acknowledge that progress is happening. Over the last decade, there has been a modest yet meaningful 6% increase in the number of women entering the engineering workforce. While that growth might seem small, in a historically male-dominated sector, it reflects the growing momentum behind initiatives aimed at bringing more women into technical roles.
#INWED25 – Celebrating Women in Engineering
This year, International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) made its return on 23rd June 2025, under the hashtag #INWED25. The day celebrates the incredible achievements and contributions made by women engineers around the world. It also serves as a critical reminder of the need to support and inspire future generations of women and girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The telecommunications sector, in particular, is undergoing significant change as more women enter the field and take on impactful roles in both technical and strategic positions. From senior engineers and infrastructure specialists to C-level executives and project leads, women are helping to shape the future of how businesses connect, communicate, and innovate.
Orbital Net’s Commitment to Gender Diversity
At Orbital Net, we recognise that diverse teams are stronger teams. That’s why we’re proud to champion gender inclusion in the connectivity and telecoms sectors.
We have recently welcomed Ann Stone to our expanding PIA (Physical Infrastructure Access) engineering team. With over 15 years of experience in telecoms, Ann brings a wealth of knowledge, a passion for the industry, and a proven track record of delivering high-quality network solutions. She’ll play a key role in helping us roll out our ultra-fast full fibre infrastructure across business estates throughout the UK.
“It’s an exciting time to join Orbital and to work in telecoms,” says Ann. “This industry is constantly evolving, and being part of a team that’s genuinely investing in the future is incredibly rewarding. I hope my presence here helps encourage more women to step into engineering roles and join this exciting sector.”
Ann will be working closely with our Project Manager Sarah Lucas, who meticulously plans all of Orbital’s PIA projects from start to finish.
How the Sector Advertises Roles is Important!
Attracting more women engineers into the internet and telecoms field starts with creating an inclusive culture and breaking down barriers that have historically limited diversity in engineering. Employers need to actively promote gender equality by showcasing a clear commitment to diversity in recruitment, leadership, and there company values.
Representation matters. Featuring female engineers in marketing materials, at events, and on leadership panels can inspire other women to see themselves in similar roles.
Additionally, partnerships with schools, colleges, and STEM organisations can help employers reach young women early, showing them that telecoms and internet engineering are exciting, rewarding, and viable career paths.
Join the Future of Engineering with Orbital
As we continue to expand our Orbital reach and support businesses across the UK, we are actively seeking skilled, motivated individuals to join our team.
If you’re an engineer (or aspiring to be one) and looking for your next opportunity in a fast-moving, forward-thinking company, we’d love to hear from you.
Send your CV to: careers@orbital.net