Enacting workplace culture change for excellence in research: a gender lens

Abstract

Science and engineering research excellence can be maximized if the selection of researchers is made from 100% of the pool of human talent. This requires policies and approaches that encourage broad sections of society, including women and other underrepresented groups, to participate in research. Institutional policies, interpersonal interactions, and individuals' attitudes are drivers of workplace culture. Here, some new evidence-based and systematic approaches with a focus on culture are proposed to foster women's inclusion and success in science and engineering.

Evaluating Computer-Aided Design Software as a Barrier to Women’s Engagement in Engineering: A Focused Literature Review

“…Additionally, via these recruitment and retention activities, once a 'tipping point' of the representation of women is reached in CAD communities, we may start to see broader cultural shifts towards inclusivity [23], [24]. Further efforts to build community for women in CAD can draw on the already extensive literature and efforts around women in engineering, including general research on culture change in science and engineering broadly [79], and national efforts such as Engineers Canada's Women in Engineering and 30x30 initiatives [6], [80], as examples.…”