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I agree that encouraging Physics is a positive concrete step that could help.

More widely I feel that the problem is linked to the image surrounding engineering, often portrayed in the media as a geeky, male dominated profession (even misogynistic at times - e.g. The Social Network). This image may make the industry appear intimidating for women and also gives the impression, that in society's eyes, women would somehow have to part with their "femininity" to become an engineer. In this sense language such as girle, boystress, laddy, words which contain baggage and prejudice about what it means to be male/female are dangerous and should be avoided!

I also agree that a strong female role model in engineering could go a long way to breaking down these barriers.

And of course (in my opinion), positive discrimination should be used to re-balance the scales. Perhaps the best level for that to happen would be at higher education level, which would place the onus on educational institues to redress the balance.