One of the most frequently cited reasons for girls' under participation in mathematics and science is the lack of female role models. Consequently, a common intervention strategy to encourage girls to continue studying mathematics and science is the importation into schools of one or more women successfully working in such fields as science and engineering. Little research has been done into the effectiveness of these 'occupational' role models as most of the literature on role modelling actually refers to secondary and tertiary teaching staff. This dissertation discussed the use of occupational role models in a school visiting program. The methodology of the study followed a pretest, treatment, posttest approach with the pre and posttests taking the form of two questionnaires. These were used to gather data on attitudes towards women in science and engineering and on the behaviour of 15 year old students in terms of mathematics and science subject choices. By analysing the data it was possible to assess the changes in both attitude and behaviour of the students resulting from contact with the women occupational role models. The conclusions were that contact with the female role models not only helped to break down stereotyped attitudes towards mathematics, science and related careers but also appeared to influence subject choices for both girls and boys.