Exploring the retainment of women engineers at a steel manufacturer in Gauteng, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Globally, there is a growing demand for gender balance in the workplace. A balanced environment provides equal opportunities for career advancement and enhances organisational performance. However, the engineering industry, including the steel industry, falls short of gender balance, with only 35.9% women in selected European countries and 21% in the USA. In South Africa, only 20% of engineers are women. Despite an increase in women in engineering programs, there's a significant attrition, with only 11% actively employed as engineers. Studies highlight challenges faced by women in engineering, yet the attrition of women engineers in the steel industry remains unexplored. Aim: This study aims to determine whether the retention of women engineers within the selected steel organisation is a cause for concern, in line with global trends. This study will further explore the factors that influence the retention of women engineers in the organisation and their turnover intentions. Method: This study used an empirical investigation with an interpretivist paradigm and inductive approach in applying qualitative research methodology. The study applied a phenomenological strategy with a cross-sectional time horizon data collection design. Results: The research determined that the retention of women engineers in the selected steel manufacturing organisation is a cause of concern. This study further identified factors influencing women engineers’ retention and turnover intentions. The study provides managerial implications and makes recommendations based on the findings. Finally, the study makes recommendations for future research.