Championing women in defence: Reflections from the Critical Mass Summit

Representing Armstrong Works were female team members – including welders, fitters and fabricators from the factory floor – alongside a member of our business development team. Their attendance reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to encouraging more women into engineering and manufacturing roles, while ensuring they have the support and opportunities to build long, rewarding careers.

The summit featured talks from inspiring female leaders, exploring the opportunities, challenges and experiences of women working across every corner of the defence sector. For some of our team, it was the first time they had seen such a broad perspective of defence careers.

Leading with purpose

General Dame Sharon Nesmith DCB ADC’s keynote address, Changing the Face of Defence, was one of the standout moments of the day for apprentice welder Libby.

Rather than focusing on her achievements, it was Dame Sharon’s reflection on the importance of staying true to her values that resonated most.

“For someone in such a senior position to talk about falling back on her fundamental values was really interesting,” said Libby. “It was nice to see that, despite how far she’d progressed, she still focussed on the things that mattered the most to her.”

That afternoon’s collaborative defence scenario then gave delegates the opportunity to put different perspectives into practice, working with professionals from a myriad of organisations and specialisms.

“It was great hearing different people’s insights,” Libby said. “A lot of them worked in mechanical engineering, cyber security and other behind-the-scenes roles, which is very different to being on the factory floor. We’d never really looked at anything like that before, so it was interesting to hear how everyone approached the same situation.”

The experience challenged Libby’s perceptions of what a career in defence can involve.

“I now know there are so many opportunities in defence itself. It’s not just engineering and manufacturing. It’s definitely made me much more aware of what’s out there.”

Confidence through perspective

For apprentice welder Elle, one of the most striking things about the summit was simply seeing so many women from across the defence sector gathered in one place.

“It was the first time I’d ever heard of a women-only event like that, “she said. “It was impressive to see all these women from different parts of the industry all under one roof.”

From engineers and project managers to military personnel and HR leads, the summit showcased the breadth of careers that contribute to the UK’s defence capability and the growing number of women helping to shape its future.

One of Elle’s favourite sessions was The Power and Paradox of Doubt, delivered by Olympic Performance Psychologist Dr Kate Goodger.

Drawing on her work with Team GB athletes and senior business leaders, Dr Goodger explored how self-doubt affects everyone, regardless of experience or seniority. Through a series of interactive exercises, she challenged delegates to recognise the stories we create in our own minds and how those assumptions can hold us back.

“Dr Kate’s talk made you realise that everyone experiences self-doubt,” Elle recalled. “Sometimes you create a story in your head before anything’s even happened.

“The session reinforced that confidence isn’t about never experiencing doubt. Instead, it’s about recognising those thoughts, understanding that everyone experiences them, and not allowing them to limit your potential.”

Leading in your own way

Another inspiring session featured Corporal Hermione Romain, winner of the Women in Defence UK Emerging Talent Award and the only female All Arms Physical Training Instructor at her training establishment.

Rather than trying to fit into a traditional leadership mould, Hermoine spoke about embracing her own strengths and leading in a way that felt authentic to her.

For apprentice fitter Lilly, that message really resonated.

“She didn’t try to behave like the men around her,” Lilly explained. “She leaned into being herself and used that as a strength. It showed that you don’t have to change who you are to be successful.”

Building confidence through connection

The summit also prompted conversations about how businesses can support women once they join the industry.

Reflecting on her own experience at Armstrong Works, Lilly explained how small gestures can make a lasting difference.

“When I first started, I was the only woman in my team on the factory floor. The men were all really welcoming, but some of the women from the office came over and introduced themselves. They checked in to see how I was getting on and let me know they were there if I needed anything.”

The discussion reinforced why initiatives such as our Women at Armstrong Works network are so important. Through regular meetings and events, the group brings together women from across Pearson Engineering and Responsive Engineering to share experiences, build connections and support one another.

The summit also highlighted the importance of allies. While the event celebrated women’s achievements, our team were equally keen to acknowledge the encouragement they receive from supportive managers and colleagues across the organisation.

Reflecting on the day, Bryony, from the business development team and lead of the Women at Armstrong Works network, added: “One of the speakers said, ‘Be in it to change it,’ and that really stayed with me. Seeing women working successfully in defence makes a difference.

“We also came away reminded that creating an inclusive workplace isn’t something women do on their own – it relies on supportive colleagues, mentors and leaders who help create an environment where everyone can succeed.”

Looking ahead

The Women in Defence Critical Mass Summit reinforced a simple but powerful message: attracting more women into defence is only part of the challenge. Creating an environment where they can build confidence, develop their careers and feel they belong is what encourages talented people to stay.

At Pearson Engineering and Responsive Engineering, we’re proud to be playing our part. Whether through apprenticeship opportunities, professional development and initiatives like Women at Armstrong Works, we’re committed to building a workplace where everyone can thrive – and where the next generation of women can see that there is a place for them in defence.