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Manufacturing and engineering have long been seen as male-dominated fields, but the tide is turning. Women across the globe are stepping into these roles, proving that skill, precision, and innovation have no gender. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize the importance of increasing female representation in traditionally male industries and celebrate the trailblazers who are paving the way for future generations.

Breaking Barriers

Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in engineering and manufacturing. In the United States, women accounted for about 30% of the manufacturing workforce in 2021, yet they represented only 7% of the sector’s CEOs. Women held just 17% of the manufacturing jobs in production occupations, illustrating the ongoing need for increased representation at all levels of the industry.

In Australia, women now make up 14% of the engineering workforce as of 2022, reflecting a modest increase from previous years. In manufacturing, the proportion of women in the workforce increased from 26.4% to 28.9% over the decade leading up to 2023.

This reality is reflected across the industry globally and highlights the ongoing efforts required for a more inclusive industry.
 
Celebrating Women in Machining

A shining example of female excellence in manufacturing is Stephanie Chrystal, the 2024 recipient of ANCA’s Female Machinist of the Year award. As a geometric grinding specialist at Sandvik Coromant, Westminster, South Carolina, USA, Stephanie’s passion for precision and problem-solving has driven her success.

“When I first heard that I had won, I was ecstatic,” Stephanie recalls. “At first, I thought I was just a finalist, which was already an honor. But when I realized I had won, I did a happy dance! This recognition validates my 10 years of dedication to the company.”

Stephanie’s career in manufacturing was not always easy. She faced the challenge of proving herself in a field where, early in her career, only two out of sixty employees on the shop floor were women. But instead of letting this discourage her, she focused on learning, asking the right questions, and working alongside engineers to solve complex problems.

Interested in applying herself to work requiring attention to detail, challenges in the geometry of round tools, and problem solving, Stephanie is grateful for a whole host of mentors at Westminster. Learning tips and tricks from operators using machines, such as ANCA’s grinding machines for 20 plus years, she has found ways to grind tools more efficiently.

Today, Stephanie plays a crucial role in training and mentoring new operators, ensuring that the next generation of machinists—regardless of gender—has the tools to succeed.

Why Diversity Matters in Manufacturing

The manufacturing and engineering sectors thrive on problem-solving, creativity, and efficiency—skills that are not exclusive to any gender. A diverse workforce brings new perspectives, enhances collaboration, and drives innovation.

“No occupation should be labelled a ‘man’s job’ or a ‘woman’s job,’” Stephanie emphasizes. “Having more women in machining means bringing different perspectives to the table, improving communication, production, and management. It’s time for us to break the mold and build a more diverse team.”

This is a sentiment echoed by industry leaders who recognize the value of diversity. Initiatives like the ANCA Female Machinist of the Year award, which will run for the third time in 2025, highlight the importance of recognizing and encouraging female talent in the field.

Stephanie added: “I am grateful for such an award existing in our industry and hope it inspires many others to recognize the amazing women that we have around the world and take pride in their work.”

Johanna Boland, ANCA Group Strategy & Communications Manager said: “Recognising and celebrating the contributions of women in the tool and cutter grinding industry is a vital step towards unlocking the industry's true potential. By embracing and empowering women, we discover a wealth of diverse perspectives, fresh ideas, and extraordinary talent. ANCA is committed to shining a spotlight on these remarkable individuals, because we believe that their success fuels the success of our industry as a whole."

Looking Ahead

For women considering a career in manufacturing, Stephanie’s advice is simple: ask questions and be curious.

“I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to ask questions and seek knowledge. If we’re not learning something new every day, how can we expect to grow in our careers?” she says.

With role models like Stephanie leading the way, the future of women in manufacturing looks bright. The next generation of women in machining will step into the industry with confidence, knowing they belong and have just as much to offer as anyone else on the shop floor.

Winning Female Machinist of the Year was a defining moment in Stephanie’s career, but she has no plans to slow down. Her next goal? Expanding her expertise and advancing into engineering roles at Sandvik Coromant.

“I hope this award will help me open doors to the engineering department,” she says. “I see so many brilliant women around me, dedicated and capable. More young women are going to take their first steps into machining with confidence, knowing they can do this just as well as the guy next to them.”
 


 

26 February 2024