Lagos Female Engineers Drive Practical Skills, Mentorship Programs

Dr. Atinuke Owolabi, the outgoing chair of the Lagos Chapter of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), has highlighted the chapter’s dedication to boosting practical expertise among engineers. She stressed the importance of hands-on experience for young engineers while ensuring seasoned professionals stay current and relevant.

Speaking at the 2025 annual meeting in Lagos—which included awards presentations and the election of new chapter leaders—Dr. Owolabi reflected on her accomplishments over the past two years.

She shared that the chapter successfully organized numerous workshops, trainings, and hackathons. Notable programs included the APWEN Lagos Skill-Up initiative with AUTO-GIG, which provided Auto-CAD training for 25 engineers, digital manufacturing sessions at Microsoft for 38 members, and two cyber-security workshops.

Other milestones included 102 entries in the SHEnovation Hackathon, launching the SECAP program for 200 young female engineers, and offering practical sessions in mechanical, solar, and civil engineering disciplines.

“We reached more than 1,500 girls through STEM outreach programs,” Dr. Owolabi said. “We trained over 50 senior engineers in artificial intelligence tools, visited multiple schools for International Day of the Girl Child and International Day of Women & Girls in Science celebrations, and mentored 120 girls on health and hygiene. Additionally, we organized a STEM holiday camp in Makoko in honor of Dr. Felicia Agubata and provided scholarships and robotics demonstrations at Pan-Atlantic University.”

Dr. Owolabi added that APWEN Lagos has strengthened its systems, empowered its members, and positioned the chapter as a forward-thinking force in engineering. These initiatives have enhanced visibility, developed skills, and inspired female engineers, motivating younger members to excel.

The chapter also facilitated employment opportunities, including placements with Tranos, Covenant Plus, and 20 positions with Dangote.

Even as she steps down as chair, Dr. Owolabi confirmed her continued involvement with APWEN Lagos. She plans to use her role on the Board of the North Central Development Commission, representing the South-West, to create more opportunities for upcoming engineers.

During her tenure, APWEN Lagos also launched the Innovation & Resource Hub at the University of Lagos and donated engineering and innovation equipment to the Faculty of Engineering. Membership expanded by roughly 120 new members, encompassing students, professionals, and retirees. Student chapters were established at UNILAG, YABATECH, and LASU, supporting smoother transitions from academic to professional engineering roles.