Systems Engineering and the Growing Role of Women

by Emanuela De Fazio (*)

On other pages of www.aofs.org, we have explored topics such as Management And Ethics, the use and importance of STEM Technologies in Defence, and the need and the benefits of an effective Communication and Customer Intimacy.

Today, we are pleased to present an insightful contribution by Emanuela De Fazio (full document here), focusing on the increasing relevance of Systems Engineering (SE) in our complex, ever-evolving world, and the expanding role of women within this vital discipline.

Below is an abstract from the full article, originally published in Italian in “Viewpoints”, the magazine of the Italian Association of System Engineering (AISE) (original document in Italian here )

Introduction

The modern world is characterized by increasing complexity, driven by factors such as rapid technological innovation, globalization, and geopolitical instability. Organizations must be competitive, innovative, and responsive to unpredictable market changes. In this context, Systems Engineering (SE) and Program Management are crucial for balancing competing demands and creating value. Women, who are increasingly valuing their contributions and assuming broader roles, are also playing a key part in this process. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are helping to raise awareness of these issues.

Scenario and Context

The Global Risk Report 2024 describes a world of both opportunities and uncertainties, with interconnected variables affecting all aspects of human life. Humans are highly dependent on complex technological tools, and modern goods have intricate lifecycles, involving broad and distributed supply chains. In this environment, a systemic approach is essential, and Systems Engineering is crucial for organizational survival and value creation.

Systems Engineering is a discipline that provides a mindset and a set of multidisciplinary, holistic, iterative, scalable, and modular principles and processes. It simplifies system complexity by analysing contexts, identifying solutions, integrating perspectives, and managing the lifecycle of complex systems. Organizations are increasingly recognizing the strategic value of SE and adopting various enablers to strengthen its implementation. These include:

• Architectural Frameworks: Standardize system representation, maintain traceability, and enhance collaboration.
• Tools like MBSE and Digital Twin: Use digital models to simplify problem-solving, anticipate risks, and optimize various processes.
• Organizational and human factors: Internal communities, training, and certification.
• Supply chain management: Promoting systems thinking.
• IT: Integrated toolchains for business lifecycle support.

Female Presence in Organizations Today

Historically, the industrial world and Systems Engineering have been male-dominated. While women are gaining ground in technical roles, progress is slow. Despite representing a significant portion of the STEM workforce, their advancement has been hindered by factors such as education systems, stereotypes, and a historical bias towards rational intelligence. However, women are demonstrating their value, particularly in leveraging diverse intelligences, leading to the rise of STEAM and the recognition of non-rational aptitudes.

Today’s complex market demands a combination of:

• Business Acumen
• Ways of Working
• Power Skills (inspiration, motivation, co-creation, shared values)

Conclusions and Food for Thought

Engineering, supported by science and technology, has driven significant human progress. To continue this progress, rigor and flexibility are essential. Systems Engineering is a key enabler for organizations, helping individuals to innovate but necessitates a workforce that is both technically proficient and adaptable, and that possesses strong interpersonal skills.

Organizations that embrace gender diversity and empower women in Systems Engineering are better positioned to navigate complexity, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable success.

The increasing presence of women in Systems Engineering is a positive development, as they bring unique perspectives and capabilities to the field. The contributions of women, with their blend of technical and soft skills, are particularly valuable in this context.

By fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment, it will be possible to unlock the full potential of all individuals and drive even greater progress.

(*) Emanuela De Fazio, a Computer Engineering graduate, has held diverse roles across companies like Metoda, Oracle Italy, and Leonardo (formerly Alenia Marconi System), including System Engineer, Program Manager, and Strategy Manager. She brings extensive experience in C4ISR, strategic planning, NATO/EU business and HR development, and is currently involved in technology development for  GCAP program.She holds multiple certifications (MBA, PMP, CMC, and more), has published in major journals (PMI, IEEE, Confindustria, etc.), and actively participates in academic and professional events. A committed STEM advocate, she mentors through Elis.org, PMI, and serves as AISE’s Chief Editor.