CHALLENGES EXPERIENCED BY THE SELECTED FEMALE ENGINEERS IN NUEVA ECIJA IN THEIR WORKPLACE

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the challenges experienced by selected female engineers in their workplace. Its purpose was to shed light on gender-specific challenges in the engineering field. Previous studies have identified several challenges faced by female engineers; however, the psychological and social aspects of these challenges have not been sufficiently addressed. This study utilized a qualitative approach and a phenomenological research design. A snowball sampling procedure was employed to identify additional respondents recommended by current participants. There were seven participants in the study. The research was conducted in Nueva Ecija, Philippines, and all participants were from the same location, as the study was limited to this area. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather data, with the aid of an audio recorder. These methods were chosen to facilitate the effective conduct of the study. Among the seven participants, two were aged 21 to 25 years, three were aged 26 to 30 years, one was aged 41 to 45 years, and one was aged 46 to 50 years. Most participants experienced gender discrimination in their workplace. The majority were employed in the field of civil engineering and reported that men were perceived as more needed and more trusted than women. These challenges negatively affected their self-esteem, and two participants stated that such experiences made it difficult for them to enjoy their profession. However, most participants shared that instead of focusing on the challenges they encountered, they concentrated on improving their work performance and developing their professional skills.