24-06-2025
More than 100 schoolgirls build 13m bridge at W5 in hands on initiative to connect females with STEM
The interactive science hub in Belfast hosted the inspirational initiative in collaboration with The Big Bridge, Design ID, and System Operator for NI (SONI) at the end of last week.
The pupils, all aged between 11 and 13 gathered at the Odyssey venue to take part in the hands-on, interactive travelling event that aims to ignite the spark of curiosity and instill confidence and ambition in the next generation of female creators.
Amy Dillion, project director at The Big Bridge and principal engineer at Design ID said she is proud to introduce young girls to the world of engineering.
"This event is about connecting female students with real engineers and showcasing the impact they can have on the world," she said.
"We are hoping to build a future that is more diverse, and celebrating International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) is a powerful way to recognise the fantastic talent we have in Northern Ireland.'
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INWED takes place annually on June 23 to shine a spotlight on the vital role women play in engineering and technology industries that remain significantly dominated by males with just 11% of women counted among the workforce in NI.
There is a growing movement to change that statistic with increasing opportunities for girls to gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and meaningful exposure to female role models within STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths).
Elaine Steele, who heads up learning and engagement at W5, is passionate about promoting the fact that 'STEM is for everyone' and hailed the event as a depiction of what is possible when educators, industry, and engineers come together.
"We're literally and figuratively building bridges by giving females the opportunity to explore engineering first-hand and connect with women thriving in the field,' she added.
'Events like this are crucial for helping young women realise that they belong in STEM.'
The ambitious project created an educational experience that blended real-world engineering, career insight, and inspirational mentorship in a supportive environment.
Emma Morris, director of operations at SONI – the electricity transmission system operator for NI – said she is proud to be involved in creating change.
'We are passionate about helping to develop the talent of the future and encourage young people, particularly women, into STEM careers, she said.
'Events like this are crucial as they help to show young people that engineering is an exciting, creative, and innovative career choice.
"It was great to see that so many pupils headed to W5, and we hope this event inspired them to consider a career in engineering.'
