BLACKBURN based nuclear engineering firm Assystem is backing the search for the UK's top 50 women in engineering.

The Top 50 Women in Engineering Awards, held in partnership with The Guardian and founded by the Women's Engineering Society in 2016, aim to encourage women and girls with potential to pursue careers in science and technology and to recognise those already making their mark in the field.

As one of East Lancashire's biggest engineering companies, Assystem is enthusiastically backing this years's awards.

Assystem UK managing director Simon Barber said: “WE50 is the opportunity to find the women who have the power to send a message to millions of women and girls that yes – engineering is for you, so go for it and take your place at the table today.

“The nuclear sector is aiming for 40% of women employed in the sector by 2030. We must meet this target if we are going to deliver the projects driving Net Zero – the most challenging engineering of our time.

“If you know a woman who is really taking the lead and making their mark in engineering, then nominate them today and help to give women a greater stake in building our future.”

Meanwhile CEO of Women’s Engineering Society, Elizabeth Donnelly, said she was glad to have the Blackburn company's support.

She said: “WES is delighted that Assystem are sponsoring the 2021 Top 50 Women in Engineering Awards.

"Assystem has a great track record in supporting women in engineering, including its terrific gender diversity programme, Incredible Women, and its commitment to the UN’s Women’s Empowerment Principles.

“Assystem have made fundamental changes to their employment practices that support and enable female employees.

"They are a great example of what can be achieved by promoting women in engineering.”

Entries for the Top 50 Women in Engineering Awards are open until March 12 and can be made online at www.wes.org.uk/WE50.