Technical and Scientific Fields: where are the women?

Initiated by the United Nations, this day aims to promote greater access for women to scientific careers. According to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics, women currently represent only 35% of students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields worldwide.

At Safran, we firmly believe that careers in aerospace are not reserved for men. In our industry, success is purely defined by skills. Moreover, we are convinced that gender diversity, and diversity in general, promotes innovation and creativity, and contributes to our success. 

Drawing on this conviction, Safran has, since March 2024, joined forces with several associations and become a member of collectives such as “Feminizing the aerospace industry” with the aim of promoting gender diversity and inclusion in scientific and technical fields, while challenging stereotypes from an early age. Internally, the Group is committed to developing an ever-more inclusive work environment, helping women flourish professionally through dedicated women’s networks, mentoring programs, and training initiatives designed to break the glass ceiling. 

The Group’s employees are highly present in the field, in schools and often work alongside young people to help them discover our professions and break down preconceived ideas about a sector in which women are still under-represented.

Our teams are involved as early as elementary school to inspire curiosity among students and to show them that these careers are open to everyone. In the UK, the “All Systems Go” program gives children the opportunity to discover scientific fields through fun and interactive activities.

Safran’s involvement extends into junior high and high school, with targeted initiatives designed to raise awareness among young girls about the opportunities available within our industry. In 2024, more than 600 Safran sponsors, coordinated by the Elles Bougent association, took part in nearly 200 school interventions. 

In order to guide students in their career paths, we continue to strengthen partnerships with schools and universities, participate in recruitment forums, and organize meetings with professionals to introduce them to our activities. For example, in Walton, Kentucky, a group of students interested by scientific fields were invited to our facilities to gain insight into the design and manufacturing stages of our products. In France, nearly 300 Safran ambassadors are actively committed to promoting our professions and inspiring future generations by conveying their experience and passion.