INWED: Meet Dr Modupe Jimoh
“If you're a young woman considering a career in engineering, I highly recommend it.”
To mark International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), we spoke to Dr Modupe Jimoh – Assistant Professor in Warwick’s School of Engineering – to find out more about her role and how Warwick is supporting young female engineers.
What do you enjoy most about your role as Assistant Professor in the School of Engineering?
I find great satisfaction in guiding individuals from a state of little or no understanding of the topics I educate on, to a point where they are knowledgeable and capable of applying the information to real-world issues. Helping people learn and grow is something I truly enjoy.
What sort of work is Warwick doing to encourage young women to enter a career in engineering?
Warwick's staff, both individually and as a member of a team or unit, have been dedicated to promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) awareness among primary and secondary school students – a solid foundation in STEM subjects is crucial for those pursuing a career in engineering.
Our School of Engineering welcomes school visits from pupils and students throughout the country and offers various programmes to showcase the accomplishments of our students and our female staff members. We take pride in supporting the Warwick Women in Engineering and Science (WWES) student society, and we also offer the Women in Engineering Scholarships Programme for first-year undergraduates, which has been in place for several years.
The theme for INWED this year is ‘Make Safety Seen’ – why do you think this theme was chosen and what role does it play in your day-to-day work?
Every year, INWED focuses on different aspects of our society in relation to engineering. This year's theme, ‘Make Safety Seen’, is particularly relevant in our rapidly-changing world. Ensuring the safety and security of people's lives, livelihoods, and property is incredibly important – it was a key topic at this year’s Women’s Engineering Society (WES) Annual Conference, as speakers discussed safety across everything from the aerospace industry to electric cars.
As part of my daily responsibilities, I strive to educate individuals on the importance of ensuring safe water and sanitation for all. I emphasise the significance of implementing secure infrastructures and ethical practices. To ensure a safe work environment, I abide by safety regulations and encourage others to do the same.
What one piece of advice would you give to young women looking to start a career in engineering?
If you're a young woman considering a career in engineering, I highly recommend it. Regardless of your passions and unique qualities, there's always a place for you in this field.
If you enjoyed this you can hear from two inspiring undergraduate students and take a look at the INWED 2023 Celebration Mural to see some of our brilliant women in engineering.