I am a Civil Engineer with Bechtel. I joined Bechtel in 2019 as a Graduate Civil Engineer and have since worked on large scale and complex infrastructure projects both in the aviation and rail sector in the UK.

I’m currently carrying out the role of Engineering Manager within the hybrid Bill Directorate on High Speed 2 Phase 2b. In this role, I’m delivering impact by providing the technical engineering expertise to support the successful passage of the Crewe- Manchester hybrid Bill through Parliament.

I am also a champion of diversity and inclusivity, demonstrated by my strong commitment to improving the representation of both women and minority ethnic individuals within Engineering.

I graduated from Coventry University in 2019, where I was awarded the Master of Civil Engineering (MEng). I currently live in London.

I’ve always been fascinated by the built environment and wanted to able to create a tangible impact that would improve the quality of people’s lives. I liked how dynamic the industry was and the prospect of working on such diverse and complex mega projects all over the world excited me. I wanted a career that would allow me to combine the best of both worlds (the technical side and the creative side) as well as one that constantly challenged me.

You can have two interesting facts about me! Number one; I can play three instruments (the guitar, the piano and the bass) and, number two; in my spare time I like to box!

My key skills include the ability to solve technical and complex problems and strong project management skills. I am very much a people person - good at forming strong relationships, organised, logical thinker , ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines, good listener

I would say one of the biggest challenges for women in the construction industry is overcoming the typical stereotypes and biases associated with being a woman e.g assumption you couldn't be an engineer based on appearances. It means you have to often work often twice as hard to get the same level of respect and progression as your male counterparts.

In terms of advice, I would say be open to and ready for a steep learning curve! No matter how much experience you have, you are constantly learning and developing. Be willing to step outside your comfort zone to try new experiences. Get yourself a mentor or even a couple of mentors. It is important to have someone to support you, champion you and turn to for advice throughout your career.