Students Celebrate International Women in Engineering Day at Unilever Port Sunlight
23rd June 2026
Thirty-six female students took part in an inspiring Engineering Challenge Day at Unilever Port Sunlight on 23 June, celebrating International Women in Engineering Day through hands‑on creativity, teamwork and problem‑solving.
The event, DiscoverChemEngLIVE Challenge Day, was kindly hosted by Unilever Port Sunlight. Developed by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) in partnership with All About Futures, and powered by regional delivery partners CATCH, Education Academy Scotland, and RTC North, the programme is designed to widen participation in engineering and ignite curiosity among young people.
As part of the Challenge Day, Year 8 students from state‑funded schools explored the exciting and impactful world of chemical, biochemical and process engineering through a series of fast‑paced, team‑based activities. From tackling real‑world sustainability challenges to discovering how engineers transform everyday materials such as seaweed, graphite and sand into essential products, students gained insight into how engineering shapes the world around them.
DiscoverChemEngLIVE has been created to spark curiosity, build confidence and unlock creativity, showing students that engineering is not only technical but also collaborative, imaginative and driven by real‑world purpose. By taking part at no cost to schools, students are given equitable access to high‑quality STEM engagement experiences across Merseyside & Cheshire, Yorkshire & the Humber, Scotland, and the North East.
The programme’s central aim is to demonstrate how chemical and process engineers make a meaningful difference—combining creativity, innovation and sustainability to improve lives and protect the planet. By spotlighting these careers on International Women in Engineering Day, the Challenge Day also highlights the vital role women play in shaping a more sustainable future and encourages the next generation to see engineering as a place where they belong.
Commenting on the event, IChemE CEO Yvonne Baker said: “We want young people to leave today understanding that chemical engineering isn’t a niche subject – it’s all around them. Chemical engineering is everywhere, and the challenges of creating healthier, cleaner and more sustainable communities will need diverse thinkers and future engineers from every background.”
IChemE President Dr Ollie Folayan added: "Seeing how engaged these young people are has been very inspiring. I have been impressed with how their suggestions and ideas have been guided by a motivation to do good. The future of our sector is in safe hands."
Connie, a year 8 student who took part in the event, said: "Chemical engineers use their creative, innovative ideas, ideas to change the world for the better."
Links
What is chemical engineering?
Chemical, biochemical and process engineering is the application of science, mathematics and economics in the process of turning raw materials into everyday, and more specialist, products. Professional chemical engineers design, construct and manage process operations all over the world. Energy, pharmaceuticals, food and drink, synthetic fibres and clean drinking water are just some of the industry sectors and products where chemical engineering plays a central role.
IChemE
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) advances chemical engineering's contribution for the benefit of society. We facilitate the development of chemical engineering professionals and provide connections to a powerful network of around 32,000 members in more than 100 countries.
We support our members in applying their expertise and experience to make an influential contribution to solving major global challenges, and are the only organisation permitted to award Chartered Chemical Engineer status and Professional Process Safety Engineer registration.