Eight young women have joined the pioneer cohort of EngineerHer, a technical training and mentorship programme launched by WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria to address the underrepresentation of women in engineering roles.
EngineerHer is WACT’s latest attempt to build a more inclusive workforce, starting from its host community in Onne, Rivers State.
According to the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, women account for nearly half of Nigeria’s population but just five percent of practising engineers. This year-long initiative is expected to help the selected female engineers gain practical experience, leadership skills, and access to mentors to match the skill requirements of the industry.
“The beneficiaries will get an on-the-job training designed to equip them with the skills and experience that they need to thrive in the workforce, either at WACT or any multinational company,” said Jeethu Jose, managing director, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria.
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Margaret Seignure, one of the beneficiaries, who studied engineering at the University, said one of her fears was abandoning the path because of a “lack of opportunity.” Another participant, Okpoo Clinton, said the few weeks she had spent at WACT raised her expectations and taste for professionalism.
“By providing opportunities for female engineers to develop their skills, gain industry experience, and build their professional networks, we hope to increase female representation in WACT and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive industry,” said Chinelo Obienyem, the senior people business partner at the terminal.
