Rachel Parsons Pioneering Engineer

Episode 2: Rachel Parsons Born in 1885, Rachel Parsons was a woman of ‘firsts’, breaking the boundaries of Edwardian convention. Scientific and technological genius ran in her family, and in 1910 she became the first woman to study engineering at Cambridge University. Her pioneering career continued during the Great War, when she was appointed a director of an engineering firm in Newcastle upon Tyne, then the powerhouse of British industry. Responsible for supervising the largely female workforce, she later joined the Ministry of Munitions and trained women around the country. In 1919, Rachel and her mother founded the Women’s Engineering Society to champion female workers in industry. To advance the cause, Rachel entered politics, winning a seat on the London County Council and standing for Parliament. But – regarded as a ‘difficult’ woman – her ambitions were thwarted, and her life ended in dramatic tragedy. About the Author Henrietta Heald is the author of Magnificent Women and Their Revolutionary Machines (Unbound, 2021) and William Armstrong, Magician of the North (McNidder & Grace, 2012). Here is a downloadable link Career Guide for women engineers ⁠https://bit.ly/CareerGuideEngineering⁠ Hey podcast listeners! We need your support to not just bringing you inspiring content but also help us shine a light on incredible women addressing gender equality - with a travelling exhibition, talks and educational workshops. By becoming a Friend of the Project, you'll not only help us thrive but also receive a personal invitation to the highly anticipated Women Change Makers Debut Show. Your contribution will make a real difference in amplifying the voices of incredible women making change in our communities. Join us on this journey and be part of something special! Thank you for your support! ⁠https://bit.ly/3PUlP3t