Transforming Engineering for Women Pioneers: A Journey with Dawn Bonfield MBE FREng"

CL Taylor
May 5
4 min read

Dawn Bonfield MBE FREng is Professor of Practice in Engineering for Sustainable Development at King's College London

In a world where engineering is often viewed through a male-dominated lens, Dawn Bonfield stands out as a trailblazer. A graduate of King's College, London, and a seasoned engineer, she has made remarkable strides in her field while also advocating for women in engineering. Her story is not just one of personal achievement; it is a testament to the resilience and determination of women everywhere who overcome obstacles and redefine the narrative around their capabilities.

Early Days: A Spark Ignited

Dawn’s fascination with engineering began at a young age. Growing up in a household where creativity and innovation were encouraged, she spent countless afternoons tinkering with gadgets and exploring how things worked. One quirky anecdote from her childhood involves a project that went hilariously awry: when trying to build a homemade radio, she accidentally short-circuited the family’s television, leading to a rather memorable scolding from her parents. However, this only fueled her passion for problem-solving and invention.

Despite her enthusiasm, the path to engineering was fraught with challenges. During her time at King's College, she was often one of the few women in her classes. The classroom dynamics could be intimidating, but she found solace and strength in the supportive friendships she cultivated with fellow female students. They would rally together, sharing not only academic resources but also strategies for navigating a male-dominated environment. This camaraderie would prove essential as she forged her path in the engineering world.

Her Career: A Series of Firsts

Dawn Bonfield's career is marked by a series of firsts that underscore her pioneering spirit. After completing her studies, she joined the engineering sector, where she quickly identified a significant gap in representation. Women were underrepresented not only in the workforce but also in leadership roles. Recognizing this disparity, she took it upon herself to advocate for change.

One particularly quirky moment in her career occurred when she was asked to present at a major engineering conference. Nervous yet determined, Dawn decided to bring a prop: a “Women in Engineering” banner that she had painstakingly crafted herself. It was a bold statement, and as she unveiled it during her presentation, the audience erupted in laughter and applause. That moment became a catalyst for conversations about gender diversity in engineering, inspiring many attendees to consider their own biases and the importance of inclusive practices.

The Impact of Advocacy

Over the years, Dawn has held various leadership positions, but her most significant impact has come from her advocacy work. As a founding member of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES), she has worked tirelessly to promote female representation in engineering. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, yet the recognition she deserves has often been overshadowed by more high-profile figures in the industry. For Dawn, this has never been about personal accolades; it's about paving the way for future generations of women engineers.

In her recent oral history featured on the podcast “Women of Influence,” she shares her journey and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. Listeners can hear her recount the times she faced skepticism from peers and superiors, only to prove them wrong through her dedication and expertise. Her stories resonate deeply, reminding us that many women achievers remain unsung heroes in their fields, often overshadowed by their male counterparts.

Examples of employers and occupations for Mechanical Engineering graduates who entered employment:

Example of Employer	Example of Occupation	Industry & Employment rate
Jaguar Land Rover y Kubrick Group y Lightricks y London Stock Exchange Group y MBDA UK y Mckinsey y Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team y Morgan Stanley y Mott MacDonald	Graduate Analyst y Graduate Associate y Graduate Data Science y Graduate Engineering Manager y Graduate Mechanical Engineer y Graduate Performance and Simulation Engineer y Graduate Software Engineer y Graduate Systems Engineer y Graduate Trainee in Defence Aero Space	Mining and Quarrying 4% 2% 2% Manufacture 22% 19% 24% Electricity, Gas, Water 0% 2% 2% Construction 0% 0% 2% Wholesale and Retail Trade 2% 5% 4% Transport and Storage 0% 2% 0% Accommodation and Food Services 0% 0% 2% Information and Communications 12% 16% 11% Financial and Insurance 12% 13% 8% Real Estate 0% 0% 0% Professional, Scientific and Technical 35% 25% 24% A

The Legacy of Dawn Bonfield

Dawn Bonfield’s legacy is one of inspiring resilience and unyielding passion. She embodies the spirit of perseverance that many women face as they navigate their careers in traditionally male-dominated industries. Her journey is not just about personal triumph; it’s about lifting others as she climbs.

As we celebrate her achievements, we must also acknowledge the countless women who continue to break barriers every day. Dawn’s story serves as a reminder that obstacles can be overcome, and the contributions of women in engineering—and in all fields—deserve to be recognized and celebrated.

In closing, Dawn Bonfield’s journey is a powerful narrative of inspiration and empowerment. As she continues to advocate for women in engineering, her story reminds us that every challenge can be met with determination and that the voices of women achievers deserve to be heard. Let us honor their contributions and support the next generation of female engineers who will undoubtedly follow in her footsteps.