Time has an uncanny ability to sneak up on us, making us reflect on the moments that have shaped our lives. In 2013, the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) celebrated an exceptional individual who quietly contributed to the organisation’s growth and progress. Named after Gillian Skinner, the Gillian Skinner Award acknowledges significant contributions to WES, often recognising ‘back office’ services that often go unnoticed by the general membership. Helen Charteris was the proud recipient of the 2013 award for her outstanding dedication to WES over the preceding year. Fast forward to today, Helen’s dedication to the society remains strong as she continues empowering women pursuing engineering careers.
In the vast world of recognition and awards, the Gillian Skinner Award stands as a beacon of appreciation for those who diligently work behind the scenes. WES recognises that the engine driving its success isn’t just its visible members but also those unsung heroes who keep the gears turning. It is these ‘back office’ services that often lay the foundation for the society’s achievements. Helen Charteris, through her unyielding commitment, exemplified the values of this award, demonstrating that every role within an organisation is essential for its overall progress.
In 2013, Helen Charteris shone as a true torchbearer of WES’s ideals. Her unwavering dedication over the past year earned her the esteemed Gillian Skinner Award. But her journey with WES didn’t end there. Fast forward to the present, and Helen Charteris continues to be an active member, carrying the torch of guidance and support for women who aspire to make their mark in the field of engineering. As the careers adviser, Helen’s experience and insights offer a vital lifeline for those navigating their paths within this dynamic profession.
The Women’s Engineering Society, established in 1919, has been a steady pillar of support for women in engineering, science, and technology. What began as a movement driven by pioneering women who fought to retain their roles in engineering and technical domains after World War I has blossomed into a powerful network that fosters inspiration, camaraderie, and professional growth. WES’s dedication to gender diversity and inclusion has set the stage for countless women to pursue their passions and excel in engineering.
WES’s vision is more relevant today than ever before – a world where women are as likely as men to choose careers in engineering and where the demand for engineers is met by a diverse and skilled workforce. Through collaborations, partnerships, and mentorship, WES aims to inspire and empower girls and women to fully realise their potential in engineering and technical leadership. The society is also committed to assisting educators, employers, and influencers in creating a vibrant and diverse engineering community that reflects the evolving landscape of the industry.
As a charity and a professional network, the Women’s Engineering Society relies on the collective support of its members and allies to continue making strides towards a more inclusive and balanced engineering world. With a legacy spanning more than a century, WES has weathered the storms of time, remaining a steadfast advocate for women’s participation and success in engineering. By becoming a member, you contribute not only to the preservation of a remarkable legacy but also to the ongoing transformation of the engineering landscape.
The Gillian Skinner Award and Helen Charteris’s remarkable journey remind us that the strength of an organisation lies in its collective effort. WES stands as a testament to the power of unity, dedication, and a shared vision. As the torchbearers of progress, WES members, including Helen, continue to shape the future of engineering, ensuring that every woman with a passion for the field can thrive and make their mark.
In a world that is changing rapidly, WES remains a beacon of constancy, empowering women to engineer a better tomorrow.
