Foxwood Diesel on Promoting Women in Engineering

It’s a myth that engineering is just for men. However, recent findings indicate that the proportion of women working in engineering and technology decreased from 16.5% of the workforce in 2022 to 15.7% in 2023.

Without a diverse workforce, businesses risk limiting their talent pool and embracing a narrower range of ideas and approaches to problem-solving. We believe that a lack of women in engineering could result in missed opportunities for advancements in this field. Here’s why our team at Foxwood Diesel think the importance of women in engineering should never be underestimated:

As a fleet manager, you’ll understand that engineering issues impact everyone. Adopting diversity fosters innovation and creativity, often leading to more well-rounded solutions that can effectively resolve diesel engine problems. With the experience we have at Foxwood Diesel, we're confident that we're on an upward trajectory to develop the most innovative solutions.

By embracing women’s participation in engineering, our team have done our part to address the skills gap and labour shortages within our industry! Economies can now benefit from a larger, more skilled workforce that drives progress and always has the right person for the job.

Women in engineering can become influential leaders in the field, like our very own Leigh Worsdale, who you can read more about below. Having a diverse range of people in decision-making positions can lead to innovative problem-solving approaches to engineering challenges such as misfires, diesel knocking, blowby, and more, as well as encouraging change within the wider industry!

Women in engineering positions can act as role models and inspire future generations of girls to pursue similar careers. In turn, this can expand our workforce and make engineering bigger and better than ever!

Foxwood Diesel continuously strives to beat the statistics. We currently have three female employees, and we’re always on the lookout for more top talent. Let’s meet them!

Leigh joined the business in 2016 as an apprentice engineer, following her father into the industry. She then combined her work here with additional training at the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

She became the AMRC's first female Apprentice of the Year. The award, sponsored by Boeing, allowed her to enjoy a tour of the aerospace giant's sites in Seattle, providing her with the opportunity to learn more about the manufacturer.

Leigh was also awarded Chesterfield's Apprentice of the Year in the North Midlands and South Yorkshire Apprentice Awards and Highly Commended Advanced Apprentice of the Year for the East Midlands in the National Apprenticeship Awards.

Working with the Young Apprentice Ambassadors Network, Leigh served as a figurehead for engineering apprenticeships in the Yorkshire region, sharing her passion for engineering with young students. Her work here reflected her commitment to making engineering more inclusive and showing young people that engineering is an accessible and rewarding career for anyone, regardless of gender.

Leigh is now the Managing Director of the company, combining her practical experience and educational background to drive Foxwood Diesel’s continuing success and inspire the next generation of female engineers. Leigh is always there to ensure that engines are kept in good condition and that customers are satisfied.

Co-managing the company with Leigh, Nikki is Foxwood Diesel’s other Managing Director, bringing sharp, strategic insight to the business.

Nikki started working for the business in 2017, taking over the accounts site of things. Her focus is also on creating a customer-first approach that fosters satisfaction, loyalty, and a great customer experience from start to finish.

In ensuring that every decision the company makes supports long-term client relationships, Foxwood Diesel is proud to never lose sight of the people behind the wheels of bus fleets and trucks.

Last but not least, there’s Sophie, our Customer Support Sales Specialist. With the first voice that our customers touch base with, she plays a crucial role in addressing consumers’ needs and helping them find the right solutions.

Sophie has developed a deep understanding of engine parts and engineering principles, meaning our customers don’t just get to enjoy friendly service but also accurate, informed advice that helps them solve their engine problems.

Together, Leigh, Nikki, and Sophie are able to contribute to every aspect of the business, from strategy and sales to technical expertise. At Foxwood Diesel, a team with a diverse range of skills and collaboration works to strengthen it every day.

While Leigh is Foxwood Diesel’s only female engineer, she is always searching for more to join the team. If you would like to be responsible for tasks ranging from ensuring engine quality and checking compression to remanufacturing cylinder heads and addressing piston damage, please get in touch!

Read Ken's full account in Route One Magazine.

So, what does the future of the engineering industry hold? We don’t have a crystal ball to predict the future, but we hope to see a more balanced workforce with increased numbers of females in engineering roles.

As companies begin to recognise the benefits of gender-diverse leadership teams, more women may be supported in their engineering career progression, enabling them to reach senior positions and make their innovative mark on our industry.

With more diverse teams coming our way, we may also see increasingly innovative approaches, better decisions, and more effective solutions for our customers. 

With the IET suggesting that the shortage of engineers in the UK needs to be tackled head-on, it has never been more important to attract women to the sector.

If you require engine reconditioning or maintenance services, don’t hesitate to contact our inclusive team here at Foxwood Diesel. Our specialists are highly experienced in delivering top-quality services to our customers and look forward to tackling new projects. We are also happy to discuss the work experience opportunities we offer, should you be interested in joining our team.

For more engine insights and a look into the work we conduct, don’t forget to check out the rest of our blog!