History

Established in 1969, the Purdue Women in Engineering (WiE) Program was the first of its kind in the nation and has been a model for such programs at other universities. Since then, the enrollment of women in the College of Engineering has increased from less than 1 percent to the current 27 percent. Women now receive 20 percent of the undergraduate engineering degrees granted, up from less than 1 percent in the early 1970s. To date, the College of Engineering has granted more than 10,000 engineering degrees to women, thanks in large part to the WiE Program's efforts.

Mission

WiE at Purdue University is dedicated to enriching the profession of engineering through the full participation of women. We develop and direct activities that provide:

  • Encouragement for young women to study engineering
  • Information about careers and companies
  • An environment conducive to the successful completion of students' studies

We also strive to maintain strong relationships with alumnae, friends, corporations and foundations who generously support our program.

Objectives

  • To provide career information and encouragement to young women to continue achievement in math and science and consider engineering as an appropriate career choice
  • Encourage women to matriculate at Purdue University in the College of Engineering
  • Ensure a climate in the College of Engineering that allows women to reach their full potential
  • Provide opportunities for women engineering students to develop leadership skills that can be utilized in their future lives
  • Encourage women to consider graduate education and academia among their options upon graduation
  • Maintain open communication with alumnae and their employers to encourage their continued participation in and support of the Women in Engineering Program

In accordance with Purdue policies, all persons have equal access to Purdue University’s educational programs, services and activities, without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability or status as a veteran. See Purdue’s Nondiscrimination Policy Statement. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these policies, please contact the Office of the Vice President for Ethics and Compliance at vpec@purdue.edu or 765-494-5830.