Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is a male-dominated technology when it comes to its history. Over the past few years, there has been an intense focus on bringing in more women at leadership levels in this sector.
This article examines the current status of Women in Additive Manufacturing, not merely focusing on what has been achieved but also on where there remains catching up to be done.
Introduction to Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing, also known as three-dimensional printing, is a process of product creation by additive material deposition in layers that enables complex geometry and fast prototyping. The topic involves a great number of various areas and applications and is thus highly attractive to very qualified specialists of many various origins. But the field is marred by a significant gender disparity because women constitute merely a minority among managers and professionals. Women working in Additive Manufacturing need to be motivated to a more diverse environment.
Position of Women as Leaders
It has been seen that women are in about 18% CEO positions in the 3D printing sector and 48% of firms possess female executives. While this is better, there are not many female executives per firm at around three. Women in leadership positions are important because it not only brings diversity but also enables strengths like teamwork, communication, empathy, and organizational abilities. Women in Additive Manufacturing are leading the way in innovation and growth in the sector.
Benefits of Gender Diversity in Leadership
Experiments have time and again proved that gender-diverse leadership groups in companies outperform homogenous groups, being more innovative and creative. Female leaders also can be a lead inspiration generator to bring other women into traditionally male domains like additive manufacturing. Professional women in additive manufacturing are pioneering such changes, pushing for more diversity and inclusivity.
Programs to Encourage Gender Diversity
There are various organizations that aim to enhance the role of women in additive manufacturing. Women in 3D Printing and Women in AM Summit are some of them that have done an amazing job in enhancing gender diversity by mentoring, networking, and conducting awareness campaigns. The objectives of such organizations are to provide a common platform of equal status to incorporate Women in Additive Manufacturing so that they can shape their career out of it successfully.
Challenges Ahead
Even with such initiatives, the journey to gender equality in additive manufacturing is long and ongoing. The industry still has a long way to go with very low women representation in the industry. Women have been approximated to make up 11% to 18% of employees in the industry. Overcoming biases and an open culture are required steps towards the vision of increased gender representation for Women in Additive Manufacturing.
Conclusion
Although efforts have been made to enhance gender diversity to additive manufacturing leadership positions, still there is more to be done. With an understanding of the significance of gender diversity and steps being taken to empower Women in Additive Manufacturing, the industry can go towards more gender balance and diversity. As additive manufacturing grows up, varying thinking will be needed to bring innovation and development.
