Breaking Stereotypes: The Hidden Engineering Skills in Feminine Hobbies

Societal norms have long perpetuated the myth that engineering is men, overlooking the technical skills women develop through traditionally feminine hobbies. This breakout session aims to shatter these stereotypes by exploring the connections between hobbies like quilting, knitting, and crocheting, and engineering. Join us to discover how the precision, pattern recognition, and problem-solving in quilting mirror the analytical skills required in engineering. Learn how spatial awareness and dexterity developed through knitting and crocheting translate seamlessly into technical fields. We'll share inspiring stories of women who leveraged these skills to excel in engineering careers, challenging outdated perceptions of who can be an engineer. Attendees will be encouraged to share their own hobby stories and insights. Whether you're an engineer, a hobbyist, or simply curious, this session will provide valuable insights and spark a new appreciation for the technical prowess in everyday activities. Let's redefine who can be an engineer together!