In recognition of International Women in Engineering Day (#INWED2024) on June 23, we are proud to announce that Huyen Le, Doctoral Researcher in the Department of Materials, has been named among the UK’s Top 50 (WE50) Women in Engineering by the Women’s Engineering Society. This award highlights her exceptional contributions and leadership in the field of engineering.

Pursuing her PhD at Loughborough University, Huyen has focused her research on functional surface coatings, benefitting from the expert guidance of Dr. Ignacio Martin-Fabiani and mentor Dr. Yi Liu. She comments:

Along with the guidance from my supervisors, the university’s state-of-the-art facilities and emphasis on practical, real-world knowledge have been instrumental in my academic journey and ensures I am well-prepared for a future in engineering.

Her academic achievements are complemented by her active engagement in STEM outreach activities. As a student ambassador for Materials Engineering, she has visited local schools and participated in events like the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition and international academic excursions, including a notable trip to China. These experiences have enhanced her communication and leadership skills while reinforcing her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in engineering.

Recently recognised as the Postgraduate Female Engineer of the Year 2024 (FEY) by the University's Women’s Engineering Society, she has made significant strides in advocating for and raising the visibility of BAME researchers. Her participation in the PhD ThinkBig Competition and receipt of the prestigious SCI Scholarship highlight her dedication to advancing the profile of BAME individuals in engineering. Through these achievements, she serves as a tangible example of success for aspiring engineers from diverse backgrounds.

In addition to her academic and outreach endeavors, her role as a sub-warden at David Collett Hall has equipped her with vital life skills such as resilience, time management, and self-care. Balancing academic responsibilities with outreach and mentorship activities has provided her with a well-rounded skill set, essential for future leadership roles in engineering.

Her recognition as one of the Top 50 Women in Engineering on the 10^th Anniversary of #INWED2024 is a testament to her outstanding contributions and the support she has received at Loughborough. This year’s theme, #EnhancedByEngineering, celebrates the positive impact women in engineering have on society. Her research on antibacterial surface coatings addresses a critical global challenge, showcasing her commitment to innovation and societal impact.

Huyen comments:

Another real-world issue is the ongoing discrimination and unconscious biases that hinder individuals' sense of belonging. We often hear inspirational women in STEM sharing their career journeys as a way to give back.

In addition to sharing my story, I advocate for the protection and support of women who have established careers in STEM. Having faced harassment, misogyny, and racism as a woman in STEM, I understand the challenges extend beyond the lab, affecting workplace dynamics and career progression.

My experiences serve as a stark reminder of the obstacles women face in male-dominated fields. I now empower other women with strategies to navigate similar challenges, emphasising the importance of solidarity and speaking the truth!

Through advocacy and mentorship, I help others build resilience and determination to confront systemic barriers, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in STEM. I hope my journey inspires others to stand up for their truth and support one another in the face of adversity, demonstrating the power of collective action and mutual support in overcoming challenges.