Can you share your journey and what inspired you to pursue a career in the engineering industry?

I have always been interested in how things work and like to get engrossed in detail. In school, I had a passion for science as well as art which led me to a Product Design Engineering Master’s Degree. The course had varied content over the 5 years that explored design, manufacturing and engineering management, and I thoroughly enjoyed the different aspects – both practical and theoretical elements.

After graduating, I spent 6.5 years working in medical device manufacturing with different engineering roles. I was responsible for manufacturing lines, customer engagement and led a trans-Atlantic process transfer and set up. My time in manufacturing solidified my interest in STEM, allowing me to develop my transferrable skills further.

Latterly in manufacturing, I was performing a project management role and started to explore opportunities to move into this area permanently. I decided I needed a fresh challenge, and I took a sidestep by moving industry. The Design Manager role within the energy industry interested me as it allowed me to perform the project management tasks I enjoyed whilst also being at the hub of design.

What are some of the barriers you’ve faced, and how have you overcome them?

Throughout my education and employment experiences, I have been acutely aware of being in the minority within classrooms, offices or sites as one of the only women in the room. This brings self-doubt, however personally it made me more determined to find my voice in these spaces, where we have worked hard earned our spot.

Moving industry and stepping out of my comfort zone was a huge barrier for me, and some days still is! I took a risk moving from what I had known and worked hard to establish and stepped into something unknown. This brought challenges of imposter syndrome, and I was aware when colleagues who had been in the industry long term discussed situations where people “don’t know what they were doing”, I took it personally. However, that challenge spurred me on to be successful and a reminder that skills are transferable throughout STEM subjects is helpful. There is nothing more satisfying than quietly proving any doubts wrong (even if that is yourself).

How can we encourage more young girls to consider engineering as a career?

To encourage the younger female generation to consider engineering as a career, we should increase the awareness, provide positive experiences and promote inclusivity. If young girls have role models to aspire to within an industry that has development opportunities, the career path should appeal. I think it should also be noted to the younger generation that STEM subjects open the door to so many different career paths, industries and roles.

What changes would you like to see in the engineering industry to make it more inclusive for women?

I would like to see more women in leadership positions in the engineering industry which would bring more visible role models and inspiration for the new generation. It also would provide encouragement that anything can be possible, and if that was something we wanted to do, then we could be in that position one day!

How has mentorship played a role in your professional development?

I have been extremely lucky to have some strong female mentors, and role models, during my professional development. The mentors have given me advice, guidance, been a support network and assisted in realising my potential. They have also shown me how important it is to stand up for what you believe in, and been an inspiration as strong women owning their role in the field they have specialised in. I will be forever grateful for these amazing women, and they likely don’t realise the impact they have had! I hope to be the same for someone else in the future.

How has your business unit supported and empowered you to reach your full potential?

My business unit has been very supportive since I joined the company. During the relatively short time I have been with Omexom Design, the BU has enabled me to undertake a number of training courses in addition to the empowerment of owning my own projects, which collectively have developed my potential and ability in the role.

VINCI Energies UK & RoI launched an all-female programme called Elevate, can you tell us about your experience on the program?

I applied for the Elevate programme and had hoped it would give an opportunity to meet some new people within VINCI Energies UK & RoI. It has exceeded beyond my expectations, and whilst we are only halfway through, so far, we have created a supportive network of 12 amazing ladies who are each thriving in their different roles.

The course has explored different topics, including understanding the value we add, career plans, influencing with confidence and emotional resilience. Sophie and Steph’s combined enthusiasm and support for the group is highly encouraging, and they create a safe space to be open, vulnerable and willing to improve.

This programme is the first of its kind that I have been involved in and further supports VINCI’s commitment to its employees. If anyone has the opportunity to apply or be included within the Elevate programme, I would 100% recommend it is taken.

What advice would you give to women entering the engineering field today?

In short, I would say to any women entering the engineering field today, I would tell them that they deserve to be there as much as anyone else – so go for it!

We, as women, have the fantastic opportunity to pave the way and set an example for future generations and new employees. It feels an exciting time in the STEM world where there are more females entering into the industry. I’d encourage any opportunity to be taken, and take on the challenges with enthusiasm and determination, as you never know what could be next!