In light of International Women's Day, let's take a moment to appreciate the strides women have made in the workplace, transforming not just the landscape of employment but breaking through the concrete ceilings of traditionally male-dominated industries. The journey from the 1990s to 2024 has been nothing short of revolutionary, and the numbers are here to prove it.

Back in the '90s, women made up only 43.2% of the total workforce. Fast forward to 2024, and that figure has soared to an impressive 74.8%. Yes, you read that right! Women are not just participating; they are dominating the workforce in numbers that we've never seen before. But that's not where the story ends.

From a mere 8% in 1970, women have carved out their space, making up 26% of the STEM industry in 2023. While there's still room to grow, this increase is a testament to the resilience and determination of women to be a part of shaping the future.

Even in industries where the presence of women was once a rarity, such as construction, there's been notable progress. The construction industry, known for its hard hats and high-vis jackets, now boasts a 15.8% female composition in 2023. And in the global engineering industry, the percentage of women has increased by 25% since 2016, reaching 16.5%.

From the corridors of parliaments to the boardrooms of corporations, women are stepping up and taking their rightful places as leaders and decision-makers. In 1979, there were only 19 female members of parliament. Fast forward to now, and we have 225 women shaping policies and guiding nations, making up 32% of members of parliament.

But what do these numbers tell us? Beyond statistics, they narrate a story of perseverance, strength, and the relentless pursuit of equality. Women have not only entered the workforce in record numbers but have also diversified it, bringing unique perspectives, ideas, and leadership styles.

The road has not been easy, and there are still miles to go. Challenges remain, from achieving true gender pay parity to breaking the remaining glass ceilings in upper echelons of management and leadership. Yet, if history has shown us anything, it's that women are more than up to the task.

As we celebrate these achievements, let's also remember that the evolution of women in the workforce is an ongoing journey. It's a testament to the strength, resilience, and indefatigable spirit of women everywhere. So here's to the women who've paved the way, those who are trailblazing as we speak, and the future generations who will continue to push boundaries and redefine what's possible.

Together, we've come a long way, but the journey towards full equality and empowerment in the workplace is far from over. It's a journey worth celebrating, not just on International Women's Day, but every day!

If you're looking to take your next big step into the workforce or want to change up your career, submit your CV to us here and give us a call on 0330 175 8370 so we can help you secure your dream job!

Powered by Froala Editor