IEEE History Center: Elizabeth Laverick Abstract

Elizabeth Laverick Interview

Dr. Elizabeth Laverick was born in Amersham, England, in 1925. She grew up in that village, and attended local schools, where she developed an interest in science. After graduating from secondary school, she worked for a year as a technical assistant at the Radio Research Station in Ditton Park. Then she attended Durham University, specializing in physics and radio. Laverick trained in honors physics and was the only female in her honors classes. She received her bachelors degree in 1946. In 1950 she received her physics Ph.D., also from Durham University. After graduating, Laverick went to work for GEC Stanmore, doing microwave research. She then joined the Elliott Brothers firm, working on microwave instruments and directing radar research. Eventually Laverick became Technical Director of the company. In 1971 she left Elliott Brothers to become Deputy Secretary of the Institute of Electrical Engineers (U.K.), where she focused on Institute expenditures, the accreditation process for university engineering programs, and on helping IEE develop technical standards for electrical engineers. She has been closely involved with the Women's Engineering Society, and was chair of the Institute of Physics' Women in Physics Committee. Laverick helps plan International Conferences of Women Engineers and Scientists, and encourages women to enter the engineering and science professions. She is a Fellow of the IEE, a Fellow of the Institute of Physics, and a Fellow of the IEEE.

The interview spans Laverick's career, focusing on her years with Elliott Brothers and the IEE. Laverick describes her education at Durham University and subsequent employment positions in light of her position as a female engineer in a male-dominated profession. She explains her research in microwaves, radar, and guided weapons, as well as her management experiences within Elliott Brothers and the IEE. Laverick discusses IEE's internal organization during her tenure as Deputy Secretary, and assesses IEE's contributions to the electrical engineering profession. She recalls her work with the Women's Engineering Society, and the Women in Physics Committee. The interview concludes with Laverick's evaluations of the International Conferences for Women Engineers and of the overall position of women in the engineering and science professions.