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

I fell into a sales role back in 2011 – I love talking to lots of different people and finding ways to help solve customers’ problems and not be seen as a “typical” salesperson. Over time, I found being myself was enough to build trusted relationships, people would come back to me and ask to work with me again. Communicating with people from all walks of life inspired me to keep on the sales path. Technology and the rate it moves inspired me to stay in the industry because it’s impossible to get bored.

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

I have worked in the technology industry for 14 years as a saleswoman. I have faced barriers such as cultural stereotypes, gender bias & discrimination and unfair treatment.

I have overcome these by not accepting it’s ok, not giving in to peer pressure, speaking up when I know I’m being treated unfairly and challenging people’s way of thinking diplomatically. Another really important factor is having supporters/advocates/mentors. There has always been people who believe in me, support me in what I want to achieve, and see how hard I work. Without these supporters, mentors and advocates, I wouldn’t have felt strong enough to be where I am today.

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

I have started to see more women come into this industry, which is very exciting. I believe we need to increase advertising to schools and colleges, showcasing the opportunities available and how it could shape their future.

How has mentorship played a role in your professional development?

I am lucky enough to have many mentors, advocates and supporters as previously stated. These have been both male & female, in and out of Axians/VINCI Energies UK & ROI. Every mentor, advocate and supporter I have had has taught me a plethora of lessons, given me a wealth of advice and challenged me to think outside the box. This impacts the way I work with all people, everything I have and will achieve and will always influence my future career choices. I am better at my job because these people gave me their time and patience. I hope I can do the same for anyone who wants me as a mentor in the future.

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

I previously worked in a role that supported Salespeople. My business unit supported me in my request to move in to being a Saleswoman, I have now been in this role for over 8 years. I have recently been promoted again to Senior Account Manager for Higher Education and Research. I am and feel like a trusted pair of hands not only for my customers but my business unit.

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

The Elevate programme for me is the first time I have been in a room with only women for many years. As soon as I walked in for the first meeting, I felt welcome and at ease. I have learnt that other women have the same experiences I have, I no longer feel alone. Through this programme, I met incredible women, I feel better equipped in challenging situations, I know and understand my strengths and weaknesses. I have been enabled to grow in myself and my career.

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

Explore the different roles available within VINCI Energies UK & ROI, I have seen graduates explore different roles and when you’re in the right one you will know. Find the one that makes you happy and commit yourself to achieve as much as you can. Connect and build supporters, mentors and advocates along the way and you will achieve things you didn’t know you could. On the difficult days, it will always be your supporters, mentors and advocates that will challenge and encourage you to learn more and pop out the other side.

Lastly, stay resilient and persistent, especially when things get tough. There will be obstacles and moments of self-doubt, but don’t let those discourage you. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and prove to yourself what you’re capable of. Keep pushing forward, and always trust that your hard work will pay off.