In the lead-up to International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2025, W5 welcomed over 100 girls aged 11–13 from schools across Northern Ireland for The Big Bridge Event. Designed to ignite passion and curiosity in young minds, the event transformed W5’s LIFE space into a hands-on construction zone, where pupils collaborated with female engineers and mentors to bring science, technology, and teamwork to life.
The Big Bridge Event, which was held on Friday 20 June 20, was run in partnership with The Big Bridge, Design ID, and SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland). The main event of the day saw students work together to construct a fully walkable, 13-metre-long, 3 –metre high cable-stayed bridge. But this was more than just a feat of engineering; it was an empowering experience crafted to spark curiosity, boost confidence, and inspire ambition in the next generation of female engineers.
Celebrated annually on 23 June, INWED recognises the incredible contributions of women in engineering and technology across the globe. With women making up just 11% of the engineering workforce in Northern Ireland, initiatives like this play a vital role in closing the gender gap in STEM and creating a more inclusive future.
Elaine Steele, Learning and Engagement Team Lead at W5, said: "We believe that STEM is for everyone, and this event showed what’s 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. Events like this are crucial for helping young women realise that they belong in STEM.”
At its core, The Big Bridge Event was about more than constructing a bridge. It was designed to give young female students meaningful exposure to engineering as a real, exciting, and attainable career path, as well as to introduce them to inspiring female role models and allow them space to experiment, problem-solve, and succeed.
For more information about International Women in Engineering Day, click here.
