The search begins after research by the Automotive Council found that women working in automotive manufacturing are outnumbered by men three to one.
In the UK as a whole, just nine per cent of UK engineering employees are female, the lowest proportion in Europe, while fewer than 16 per cent of British engineering and technology undergraduates are women.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has said shortage of skilled workers is one of the most significant barriers to continuing the record growth in UK Automotive, with thousands of jobs currently vacant and women considerably under-represented in the workforce.
A panel will announce the winners in a series of categories, and one individual will be named Britain’s most influential woman in the automotive industry.
Inspiring women
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “There are, right now, at least 5,000 skilled vacancies in automotive manufacturing, underlining a critical need to attract more talent.
“That’s why we’re delighted to support this new initiative by Autocar, to help inspire young women considering their career prospects.”
Related: ‘Employ more women or risk missing out on millions of pounds’, IMI warns
Jim Holder, Autocar editorial director, said: “We have started this event to stimulate debate about the attractiveness of the industry we love as a place to work for everyone.
“At present, women are under-represented, but it is our belief that a positive focus on the numerous opportunities that a career in the industry can offer can have a real impact in reversing that trend.”
The winners will be announced at the Great British Women in the Car Industry event on July 8 2016.
