John Crane, a global leader in flow control technologies and a business of Smiths Group plc, is commemorating International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026 by highlighting the achievements of its engineering leaders and encouraging more women to explore rewarding careers in engineering and technology. Observed annually across the world, International Women in Engineering Day recognises the contributions of women engineers while promoting greater diversity across the profession. This year’s theme, “Engineering Intelligence,” celebrates the innovation, technical expertise, creativity and problem-solving capabilities that engineers bring to addressing some of the world’s most demanding industrial and environmental challenges.
The occasion also draws attention to the continuing gender gap in engineering. According to UNESCO, women account for only 28 percent of engineering graduates worldwide and represent just 35 percent of graduates across science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. These figures reinforce the need for greater participation of women in engineering to build a more inclusive and future-ready workforce.
As part of this year’s celebration, John Crane is recognising the professional journey of Sook Won Moon, Vice President of Engineering Solutions, whose career reflects the opportunities available within the engineering profession. Having joined the company in 1997 as an Applications Engineer, she has spent nearly three decades supporting customers with complex engineering challenges while progressing through a series of technical and leadership roles. Today, she leads global engineering teams responsible for developing advanced solutions that enhance operational efficiency, equipment reliability and sustainability for customers across industries.
Speaking on the significance of this year’s theme, Sook Won Moon said engineering extends far beyond technical expertise. She noted that curiosity, collaboration and innovative thinking remain essential qualities for developing practical solutions to increasingly complex industrial problems. She also highlighted the expanding role engineers play in supporting digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, energy efficiency and emissions reduction. As industries continue adopting new technologies, engineers are helping organisations improve productivity while advancing sustainability goals and resource conservation.
Sook Won Moon emphasised that the engineering profession benefits from a broad diversity of ideas and experiences. She encouraged organisations to continue creating opportunities for young women while challenging outdated perceptions about engineering careers. Greater representation, she said, will help the profession attract the talent required to address future global challenges.
John Crane believes engineering offers meaningful opportunities to contribute to society by developing technologies that improve industrial performance, support cleaner energy systems and solve critical operational issues across sectors. By recognising accomplished professionals such as Sook Won Moon, the company aims to inspire the next generation of women engineers and reinforce the message that engineering is a dynamic, innovative and impactful career choice. Through its continued commitment to diversity, inclusion and technical excellence, John Crane seeks to help build a stronger engineering workforce capable of driving innovation and delivering sustainable solutions for industries around the world.
