Fostering women’s retention in Engineering: barriers, success factors and Continuous Education proposals

This study explores strategies to foster women’s retention in engineering and technology through continuous education programs. The research identifies key barriers, success factors, and practical interventions aimed at supporting women’s long-term engagement in STEM fields. Using a preprogram survey, the study evaluates participants' initial interest, self-confidence, and perception of engineering careers. A continuous education program was designed with a focus on hands-on learning, mentoring, and activities highlighting the social impact of engineering. Preliminary results suggest that interventions targeting both technical skills and social integration can significantly improve retention. Future work includes a post-program evaluation and an annual follow-up to measure the long-term effects on participants’ confidence, persistence in engineering programs, and sense of belonging in STEM environments.