Blueprints & Breakthroughs: Women in Engineering

In this special World Refrigeration Day episode of the WiRACHP States of Matter podcast, we bring you an inspiring panel discussion recorded live at the Installer Show. Featuring the CoolSkills Women in HVAC Panel, this conversation dives deep into the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of women in the engineering and refrigeration sectors.

Chaired by Jess Shanahan, the panel includes accomplished IOR members Lizzie Dunlop, Chloe Jennings, and Margaret Rafter, alongside the highly respected Ruth Gill. These remarkable women share their personal journeys into engineering, how they’ve built their careers in a sector where women remain underrepresented, and the importance of mentorship, community, and allyship in creating more inclusive workplaces.

From early career choices to the role of social media and the urgent need for industry-wide support, this discussion sheds light on what it truly takes to break barriers and thrive in HVAC and beyond. Whether you’re an aspiring engineer or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical advice for anyone looking to create a more diverse and dynamic future in engineering.

This panel discussion was recorded on World Refrigeration Day at the Installer Show. The WiRACHP Network extends its thanks to the Installer Show for kindly granting permission to share this recording.

Additional information

For more information about the Institute of Refrigeration and the Women in RACHP Network visit https://ior.org.uk/women-in-rach