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“The Role of Women in the Development of Engineering Geology”
Session Convener:
Ann Williams (IAEG-WEG Chair)
Session Coordinators:
Anjila Malla (NSEG-WEG Chair, IAEG-WEGC Member)
Mahmuda Khatun (IBNG-WEG Chair)
Format: Online meeting via Zoom
Description:
An informal virtual meet-up designed to introduce participants to one another before ARC-15. This interactive session will serve as an icebreaker and create early networking opportunities.
Objective:
Encourage early engagement and connection, helping participants feel comfortable and included before the in-person conference.
This is a Women only Session
Location: Chovar area, Kathmandu Valley
Description:
Participants will join a short, guided hike through the Chovar area, exploring its unique geology, geomorphology, and field techniques. The field visit will include discussions on both the geological and cultural context of the region. Notes and handouts of the hiking area will be provided to each participant.
A reflection circle will follow the walk, allowing participants to share insights and build personal and professional connections. Small appreciation tokens—such as WEG badges or IAEG bead bracelets—will be distributed to commemorate the session and foster belonging from IAEG WEG and after hiking-typical Nepali lunch will be provided by NSEG.
Objective:
Build informal connections and camaraderie in a relaxed outdoor setting, promoting inclusivity and collaboration early in the conference.
Date: November 27
Time: 14:00–17:00 (3 hours)
A. Technical Presentations (around 1 hour 15 minutes) Theme:
“Navigating Gender Stereotypes in Engineering Geology: Strategies for Success”
Description:
4–5 presentations by women who are studying and working in academia, industry, and public institutions related to engineering geology, geology, civil engineering, and disaster risk management. Each presenter will share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for professional growth, inclusivity, and success in the geoscience and engineering fields.
Recognition:
All presenters will receive tokens of appreciation from IAEG-WEG.
B. Panel Discussion (around 60 minutes)
Title:
“Global Perspectives on Women’s Careers in Engineering Geology: Overcoming Barriers and Creating Opportunities”
Panelists:
Moderator:
Sweata Sijapati and Anjila Malla (NSEG WEG)
Format:
Each panelist will give a 5-minute presentation on their career and some of the inspirations or challenges. This will be followed by an interactive discussion with live audience questions, guided by the moderator. Topics will include professional barriers, mentorship, regional opportunities, work–life balance, and strategies for success in engineering geology.
Recognition:
All panelists will receive tokens of appreciation from IAEG and WEG in recognition of their participation and contributions.
Date: November 29 (After Lunch)
Duration: 2 hours
Coordinators: Anjila Malla and Mahmuda Khatun
Title:
“Essential Skills for Career Advancement: Communication, Leadership & Negotiation”
Description:
A short, interactive workshop focused on developing key soft skills essential for career growth in STEM fields. Participants will learn practical strategies for effective communication, leadership, and negotiation tailored to women in geoscience and engineering professions.
Speakers:
Ann Williams on “Allyship”
Nurun Nahar Faruqa on “Leadership and Negotiation”
Objective:
Empower participants with skills and confidence for professional advancement.
A post-conference WEG feature article will be prepared for inclusion in the IAEG Newsletter or Bulletin, summarizing key insights, research highlights, and panel discussions. Selected videos and interviews may also be shared across IAEG digital platforms.
To ensure strong participation and broad impact, the session will be actively promoted through:
IAEG social media platforms
