Resilient Coping Strategies Among Women in Engineering

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 40
  In Roundtable Session: Research on Women and Education Roundtable

Abstract

Despite more than three decades of focused attempts to broaden participation in engineering, women represent less than 20% of the engineering workforce. Experiences of gender stereotyping and bias seem to remain in this male-dominated field. Nonetheless, women continue to demonstrate considerable resolve to persevere. In the present study, we examined the resilient coping strategies employed by 15 women in engineering. Results revealed that women still encountered both gendered experiences and broader environmental obstacles that perpetuates the unwelcoming climate. Despite these challenges, women employed a myriad of resilient coping strategies to create their success. These included perseverance, asserting one’s legitimacy, cultivating support and belongingness, recognition of strengths, embracing the need for continued growth, and meaningful impact as a reason to thrive.

Authors

• Kerrie G. Wilkins-Yel, Indiana University

• Patricia Sparks

• Amber Simpson, Binghamton University - SUNY