Western Engineering Introduces Women-Only Course on Advanced Machining
The Faculty of Engineering at Western has launched its first women-only option for the Advanced Machine Shop Training course.
Created to provide hands-on, technical training, the course offers a women-only section in response to feedback from Women in Engineering, a student group that provides social and academic support for future and current women engineering students at Western.
Stephanie Tigert, the faculty’s director of experiential learning & student support, emphasized the importance of creating a dedicated space for women, highlighting the challenges they can face in historically male-dominated fields.
“Women in these spaces can experience subtle or overt messaging that they don’t belong. Having an option specifically for women allows them to engage authentically, free from feelings of marginalization, and fosters a strong sense of community among peers.”
The initiative aligns closely with Western Engineering’s goals, according to Tigert.
“Our mission is to foster inclusivity and belonging. While our women enrollment has increased, we aim for 30 per cent by 2030. The sessions for women contribute to creating an environment where women students feel included and have the opportunity to learn and grow.”
Anthony Straatman, professor and chair of the department of mechanical and materials engineering (Western Engineering photo)
Rakhee Patel, a fourth-year mechanical engineering and business student and a vocal advocate for the course, pointed to what she called double standards faced by women in engineering.
“This course aims to break down barriers, providing a safe space where women can learn, make mistakes and build confidence without judgment. It allows students to gain certifications and hands-on experience in an encouraging environment, boosting their self-esteem and capabilities.”
Anthony Straatman, professor and chair of the department of mechanical and materials engineering, is one of the architects of the course.
“Students engage in intensive training, building a hammer using milling machines, lathes, and welders. The sessions for women aim to address the hesitations of students in mixed workshops, ensuring they receive the same level of training and confidence as their male counterparts,” he said.
“The students are really enjoying it,” Straatman said. “This feedback propels us to develop even more advanced modules in milling, turning and welding, giving students even more opportunities to hone their skills.”
As the program gains momentum, Patel has already seen the impact on the perception of women students within the engineering community.
“Many women in engineering said they appreciated that they could add certifications to their resume, talk about having the experience, and say, ‘Yes, I have used milling machines, I have used the lathe.’”
From a professional perspective, according to Patel, these certifications help students eventually secure technical roles, co-ops and internships.
“I had not taken any shop classes before entering university, and my unfamiliarity made me feel insecure in machine shop settings,” said Abby Di Laudo, a fourth-year civil engineering and business student.
“Having this opportunity was important because these technical skills, along with confidence in a machine shop environment, are often barriers to entry for other opportunities in engineering.”