JIVE - Creating Change for Women & Girls in Science, Engineering, Construction and Technology

What is JIVE

A five year project funded by the European Social Fund that has addressed occupational segregation in the Science, Engineering, Construction and Technology (SECT) sectors.

JIVE is a UK national partnership led by the UK Resource Centre for Women in Science Engineering and Technology at Bradford College.

Learn more from these pod casts:

(Real Player or WMV Player required. Maximum file size 2.3MB. View transcripts here.)

Key Messages

The Key Messages of the project have been documented in the JIVE Manifesto. By 2010, only 20 per cent of the UK workforce will be white, able-bodied, full-time working men – we need to be thinking now about how to make the SECT workforce more diverse. There is a skills shortage within SECT. With women making up only 18 per cent of the workforce in these sectors, the UK is failing to make the most of the talents of over half the population. It is clear that change is needed.

Change doesn't happen by itself – action is needed at all levels to make a difference.

Employers can change practice; it makes sense to do so
- Diversity and equality policies will only impact on recruitment and retention when there is commitment at a senior level to put policies into practice
- Offering part-time and flexible working can help companies recruit and retain more women without damaging their productivity.
- By implementing gender equality training, organisations can identify and address behaviours and actions that prevent women from entering, progressing and staying within science, engineering, construction and technology.
The UK can’t afford to waste the talents of half its workforce
- Transforming work practices and providing the right support can help women qualified in science, engineering and technology return to the workplace
- Senior women can have a positive and powerful effect on the careers of younger women by acting as role models and mentors
- Women returning from a career break bring valuable new skills and experience to SECT from their time outside the sector
Organisations working together open the doors to science, engineering, construction and technology for girls and women
- Girls who have hands-on experience of science, engineering, construction and technology are more likely to consider a career in these areas
- Many organisations influence girls’ career choices – they need to work together to keep girls interested and engaged in science, engineering, construction and technology.
- Taking positive action will help to increase the numbers of women in these sectors more quickly

Read more in the JIVE Manifesto for women in SECT.

The project's achievements, resources and products are fully detailed in this website in what we believe will be a lasting legacy.