Managing professional socialization of women in engineering and technical work: challenges and solutions

Abstract

The article explores the management of professional socialization of women in the engineering and technical fields, an important aspect in the context of global efforts towards achieving gender equality and sustainable development. In the face of socio-political instability and considering the adoption of the National Strategy for Action in the Interests of Women for 2023-2030, this topic is particularly significant for Russia. The study aims to analyze the problems and challenges faced by women in the engineering and technical sectors and to identify effective measures to support their professional socialization. The research is based on biographical interviews with female educators (N=19, 2019) and practicing engineers, as well as expert interviews with university representatives (N=25, 2024) and document analysis. The study identified two main issues: limited involvement of women engineers in research activities and gender inequality, along with limited career opportunities for women in this field, which is often characterized by an organizational environment that does not fully adhere to gender equality principles. Key challenges in achieving gender equality in the engineering and technical sectors have been identified, including ensuring equal conditions for women's professional growth and overcoming persistent gender stereotypes about their professional roles and capabilities. Solutions proposed include measures to increase women's involvement in research and support their professional development, as well as creating favorable conditions for career advancement in the engineering and technical fields.