The first joint meeting between the Women in Robotics group at the University of Cambridge and members of the UK RAS STEPS Network took place on 26 February 2026 – and it was a fantastic start to a growing collaboration.

Bringing together women (and allies) from across universities, departments, and technical roles, the session focused on how we can support and inspire women in robotics through meaningful connection, shared experiences, and practical collaboration.

The one-hour online call created an open space for discussion around:

Shaping a Joint Workshop & Networking Event

Participants expressed strong interest in an in‑person event later this year, potentially hosted in Cambridge. Ideas included:

• Lightning talks
• A supportive space to discuss challenges
• A guest speaker on leadership, communication, or workplace behaviour
• Travel support via UK RAS STEPS

What Would Benefit the Community Most

Attendees highlighted several needs:

• Training in public speaking, communication, and difficult conversations
• Technical upskilling opportunities
• Better visibility of women leading robotics and technical services
• Mentoring and cross-institution networking
• Peer support, especially for those in isolated or male‑dominated roles

Shared Experiences

Rich discussion explored:

• Persistent gender imbalance in robotics
• Assumptions and stereotyping around technical expertise
• Differences in confidence, assertiveness expectations, and communication
• Barriers to progression – and the importance of community in overcoming them

Key Opportunities Identified

• Development of a skills passport and clearer progression pathways
• Cross-institution lab visits or short placements
• Strong alignment with ongoing technical workforce initiatives at Cambridge
• Potential involvement in the Cambridge Technical Conference on 30 September

Next Online Meeting

Thursday 14 May 2026
2pm (online)

We’ll use this call to refine plans for the in-person workshop and continue building momentum across the network.

If you’d like to join the next meeting or stay involved in this growing community, please get in touch: ukras-steps@leeds.ac.uk

We’d love to welcome more voices – whether you’re a student, technician, researcher, facility manager, engineer, or an ally committed to supporting women in robotics.