Inspiring the Next Generation at Females in Engineering Day 2026

South West Durham Training hosted an engaging Females in Engineering Day, giving Year 9 students hands-on experience and inspiring them to explore future careers in engineering and construction.

South West Durham Training proudly hosted a highly successful Females in Engineering Day, welcoming 20 students from Woodham Academy in Newton Aycliffe for an inspiring and hands-on experience.

The event was designed to challenge perceptions, break down barriers, and showcase the exciting opportunities available to young women within engineering and construction industries.

Throughout the day, Year 9 students took part in a range of interactive activities, giving them real insight into different technical disciplines.

These included CAD/CNC design and manufacturing, Pneumatics, Bath Fizzer making and Pipe framework construction.

Each activity was carefully designed to be engaging, practical and confidence-building; allowing students to experience new skills in a supportive environment.

Importantly, as students begin to consider their GCSE options, the event provided valuable exposure to hands-on, practical career pathways they may not have previously considered.

By engaging directly with engineering and plumbing activities, students were better equipped to make informed decisions about their subject choices, with a clearer understanding of how these pathways can lead to rewarding careers.

Teacher Stacey Clark said: “It’s been a brilliant day for our students and has given them real insight into industries they may not have previously considered. They’ve been fully engaged and clearly enjoying themselves throughout.

"Experiences like this are invaluable as they begin making decisions about their GCSE options and future careers.”

A highlight of the day saw students designing their own keyrings using CAD software and bringing their designs to life using a CNC plasma cutter.

They also created their own bath fizzers and proudly showcased pipe frameworks they had built; perfect backdrops for the many selfies taken throughout the day.

The event was led by SWDT's Senior Business Development Advisor, Kirsty Lewton, whose powerful presentation focused on breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes and encouraging more young women to consider careers in engineering.

Kirsty said: “It was very rewarding to see such enthusiasm and excitement from the students throughout the day. You could see their confidence growing as the day progressed.

I spoke to all of the students during the activities and the general consensus was that everybody was having a good experience. "This is the third time I have co-ordinated this type of event and each time I have tried to make it better than the last.

It was great to include a plumbing activity to the mix this time round and further extend the cause in breaking barriers.

"If we inspired even one student to consider a career in one of these fields, then the event was worth it.

"I would also strongly encourage leaders and decision-makers within these industries to reflect on their working environments, particularly their company culture, and make the necessary changes to support a more diverse workforce.

"This is essential not only in addressing skills gaps, but also in creating spaces for new perspectives and innovation. These young girls have a lot to offer the Engineering & Construction industries.”

A key message from the day was the importance of progressive workplaces, with employers increasingly recognising the need to create inclusive environments, positive cultures and diverse workforces where young women feel supported and motivated to succeed.

The impact of the event will reach even further, thanks to Gary Burgham from Bishop FM, who attended on the day to record the presentation.

The feature will be aired in the coming weeks, helping to amplify the message and inspire a wider audience. A major factor in the success of the event was the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere created for the students.

A stunning balloon display, created by Danielle Whittle from Little Olive & Co, set the tone for the day Students enjoyed a beautifully presented afternoon tea-style lunch, prepared by Leanne Seaman of Flossy’s Kitchen, based within the SWDT building.

SWDT's Niomi Wright, Julie McManus, Leah Scott, Jay Bell, Keith Shepherd and Kirsty supported this impactful event on the day.