I’ve always liked an adventure, so my journey in the industry has often involved jumping into things that sound interesting and learning on the job. My degree was in Physics, and I was passionate about the environment, so spent nearly ten years working for government and in the mining industry on air quality, noise monitoring and improvement strategies for walking and cycling. This took me to Groote Eylandt in the Northern Territory, to London and to many wild and wonderful parts of Western Australia.

I’ve been in the ‘sustainability’ space for the past 20 years and this really is just a way of saying “let’s understand all the factors that are relevant to this problem or project from as many perspectives as possible, then we’re in the best position to work out the solution”. I love that this can mean talking to farmers or remote local authorities one day, Traditional Owners or ecologists the next, and to engineers who can explain the complexities of transmission line, structural and civil design or flood modelling. Then we can work together on the best long-term outcomes.

I’m really excited to see that younger people in our industry have a real voice and influence now – I think this is essential now as we need to adopt fresh thinking to solve the big global challenges. If I have any advice for young females, it is to work out what you want from your career and to back yourself – you will have unique strengths that add real value to your work – learn what these are and how they enhance your work. And tell your managers what kind of work you want to do – they can only open the doors if they know which direction you would like to take.

The photo is of me (on the left), and Courtney Mansfield from the Sustainability team visiting the new Fitzroy Bridge – one of my favourite projects from the past 12 months.

I started my engineering career in the UK and moved over to Australia in 2017. I was lucky to always be encouraged to follow a career in something I enjoyed which has led me to some of the best projects Australia has to offer.

I have worked on a wide range of projects with BG&E from small council feasibility studies to working on the civil engineering design for what will be the largest intermodal rail terminal in Australia once complete.

I am constantly achieving more than I thought possible, and engineering allows me to feel a constant sense of pride, whether it be having a positive influence on a project, or on those around me. I encourage other young women to pursue a career they enjoy no matter the foreseen barriers to the industry. 

As International Women's Day approaches, I find myself with the opportunity to reflect on my journey in the dynamic realm of engineering. While it hasn't been an easy journey, it has been one overflowing with fulfilling opportunities to better my community and one I would not trade for the world.

For aspiring young women considering their own odyssey in engineering, my advice would be – do not be dissuaded and embrace these challenges. In an ever-evolving, high-demand field, your perspective and skills are invaluable. Never underestimate the impact you can have and surround yourself with peers and mentors who support and inspire your story. 

Happy International Women's Day to all the phenomenal women paving the way for our next generation of inspiring women.