A new set of sessions aimed at amplifying the voices and experiences of women in robotics and technical roles is set to feature at the Cambridge Technical Conference on 30th September 2026, hosted at the Ray Dolby Centre.

The initiative follows a recent meeting of members of the UK RAS STEPS Women in Robotics network, who have been exploring how to better support women across the robotics and wider technical community. The group agreed that bringing people together in person at a national event would be a powerful next step – creating space for visibility, collaboration and meaningful dialogue.

UK RAS STEPS will fund attendance, travel, accommodation and subsistence, helping to remove barriers and ensure wider participation from across the community.

A Platform for Visibility, Collaboration and Change

The proposed programme includes two interactive sessions designed to showcase talent, share lived experiences, and shape the future of support for women in robotics and technical roles.

Session 1: Women in Robotics – Showcase and Community

This session will spotlight the breadth of work led by women across robotics, while strengthening connections within the network.

Participants can expect:

• An introduction to UK RAS STEPS Women in Robotics and the Cambridge Women in Robotics group, focusing on visibility and opportunity
• Reflections from Dr Lucy Rogers MBE (provisionally confirmed), offering insights from her career and creative approaches to robotics
• An open community discussion, exploring:
  • What members want from the network
  • Opportunities for collaboration and peer support
  • How the community can grow in a meaningful and inclusive way

The session will conclude with clear routes to get involved in future activity.

Session 2: Women in Technical Roles – Visibility, Progression and Support

Expanding beyond robotics, this session will explore the experiences of women working in technical roles across a wide range of sectors – from laboratories and workshops to IT, AV, and cultural institutions such as libraries, museums and galleries.

It will feature a panel discussion bringing together voices from across disciplines, potentially including:

• A Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
• Dr Lucy Rogers MBE
• Technicians and specialists from varied backgrounds
• A representative from WISE (Women into Science and Engineering)

Together, they will examine key issues such as:

• Recognition and visibility of technical work
• Career progression pathways outside traditional academic routes
• Working across departments and disciplines
• Building inclusive environments in practice
• Identifying gaps in current support structures

Organisers are keen to ensure the sessions reflect the needs and perspectives of the community. Members of the UK RAS STEPS Women in Robotics network are actively invited to contribute ideas and help shape the content.

Whether you are an experienced professional, early career technician, apprentice, or simply interested in supporting greater inclusion in robotics and technical fields, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn and contribute.

Get Involved

If you are interested in attending or contributing to the sessions, email: ukras-steps@leeds.ac.uk

Full registration details will be shared soon.