Many employers within engineering and technology are said to be struggling to build adequate systems and shape a culture that ensures disabled people have an inclusive workplace experience.
The Institution of Engineering and Technology says that as a result, disabled engineers and their line managers have to work really hard for inclusion.
A report, posted on the Institution’s website, presents the findings of a study it conducted to explore and understand the lived experiences of disabled engineers and technologists in the workplace, identify barriers and enablers to inclusion and career progression, and highlight actions for change.
The Institute reported that disabled engineers and technologists, their managers and HR professionals alike described the barriers to creating an accessible working environment for disabled people, ranging from a lack of awareness to the challenge of navigating unclear and complex systems.
The report said they also identified several enablers, including supportive managers, workplace flexibility, peer networks and fast evolving technology.
It noted: “All can make a real difference to the lived experience of disabled engineers and technologists at work.
The study also highlights the specific talents disabled engineers bring to the sector, including systems awareness, adaptability, inclusive design insight and the confidence to challenge and improve processes.
It reported: “Employing disabled engineers is therefore not only a matter of equity, but a strategic opportunity to improve innovation and performance. What is evident is that the main barrier to disability inclusion is not a lack of information, but instead a lack of clear accountability and consistent implementation.
“Advancing inclusion for disabled engineers and technologists requires a big shift in approach, from accommodating individuals, to redesigning systems that have inclusion built in.”