This gathering will continue a legacy that began with the first ICWES in 1964. ICWES sparked the birth of INWES, a global network that now connects organisations, university partners, and individuals in over 50 countries, all committed to strengthening the participation, leadership, and impact of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. ICWES spans more than sixty years of global collaboration among women in STEM.

The theme for ICWES20, “Global Women in STEM: Building HerStory of Inclusive World”, speaks to both our history and our future. Around the world, women engineers and scientists are at the forefront of addressing urgent societal challenges, from climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure to digital transformation, health technologies, and inclusive innovation; this conference highlights those contributions and creates space for new alliances and ideas. The connections we make at ICWES20 will support more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable STEM ecosystems around the world.

ICWES20 and PWESS10 will offer a rich programme of networking opportunities to bring together practicing engineers, scientists, educators, policymakers, industry leaders, and students. This diversity of perspectives is essential: it enables us to share best practices, mentor the next generation, and co-create solutions that are rooted in different local contexts yet connected by shared global ambitions.

My sincere gratitude goes to our hosts PTC-WEN in the Philippines, to the ICWES20 organising committee and to every volunteer, partner, and sponsor whose dedication will make this event possible. Don’t forget that INWES will be running our 21st Annual General Meeting at ICWES20: yet another opportunity for participants to find out more about INWES and for our members to connect.

I am expecting ICWES20, as all ICWES I have attended, to be an inspiring, energising, and transformative experience. I look forward to meeting you all at ICWES20.

ICWES is the flagship global meeting point for women engineers and scientists founded in 1964 by the International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists (INWES), taking place every three years in a host country.  The INWES is the patronage organization for women professionals intended to support women and girls in engineering and science across the world.  This network seeks to encourage the education and retention of professional women in these fields through international collaboration.

Conversely, the PWESS is a national gathering of Filipina engineers and scientists held annually through the efforts of the Philippine Technological Council – Women Engineers Network Association (PTC-WEN Association). The PTC-WEN is an umbrella organization of women in the thirteen (13) engineering professional organizations.

The joint theme depicts the significant contributions of women engineers and scientists to humanity and ecosystem. Considering the rapid universal change, the conference will focus on science-based and engineered-solutions from diverse circumstances and credentials towards sustainable, resilient and inclusive communities.

The ICWES20 and PWESS10 will essentially highlight the dynamic roles of women engineers and scientists worldwide under six thematic areas.   It has likewise separate forum for practicing engineers and scientists wherein globally known professionals serve as panelists.

Furthermore, the location of said events offers magnificent tourist destinations and mind-blowing cuisines to partake and enjoy blissfully.

See you all at ICWES20 and PWESS10 to generate a truly worthy learnings and amazing experiences with like-minded colleagues from around the globe.