“Shaping the Future: My Journey as a Woman in Engineering Education
My journey as a woman in engineering has been filled with enriching challenges and professional growth. Currently, I am privileged to serve as an Assistant Professor of Chemical & Process Engineering – Leadership in Teaching (T&S) at Heriot-Watt University, where I specialise in nurturing the next generation of engineers through dedicated teaching and scholarship.
Imagine being a guide in a world built on the principles of science and innovation. My role is to lead students through the intricate landscape of chemical and process engineering, using real-world problems to teach them how to think critically and develop sustainable solutions. It’s about turning complex theories into understandable concepts that can be applied to improve the world around us.
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What does a typical day at work look like for you?
Each day is a new opportunity to influence and educate. Mornings are typically spent preparing and delivering engaging lectures that are designed to ignite curiosity and understanding among students. Afternoons may involve mentoring sessions, curriculum development discussions, or collaborative projects focused on pedagogical advancements. I also dedicate time to my own scholarly research, which aims to enhance the effectiveness of engineering education.
What advice would you give to your 15 year old self
Cherish your passion for discovery and never doubt your potential to make a meaningful contribution. The journey of an engineer is rigorous but incredibly rewarding. Your unique perspective as a woman is a tremendous asset in this predominantly male-dominated field. Continue to challenge the status quo and use your experiences to inspire and empower other young women to explore engineering.
Who or what inspired you to get into engineering?
My decision to pursue a career in engineering was driven by a deep-seated passion for tackling intricate challenges and effecting meaningful changes in our world. I’ve always been drawn to the unique blend of creative problem-solving and technical proficiency required in engineering, which allows me to address and solve pressing real-world issues.
What are the best and worst things about the job?
The best part of my work is the profound opportunity to shape young minds. I’m passionate about equipping students with the tools they need to tackle real-world challenges effectively. My role allows me to contribute actively to sustainability and to inspire more women to enter the fields of science and engineering. Through my position at Heriot-Watt University and my fellowship with the Women’s Engineering Society, I have the platform to ignite this same passion in others, preparing a new generation of engineers to address the world’s pressing energy challenges.
Where do you see your industry in 25 – 30 years time?
I see the construction industry in 25-50 years’ time as a very digital industry and mainly looking at improving what we have rather than new construction. It will be interesting to see how things develop with driverless cars and what impact that will have on civil engineering.
What is your involvement, if any, with the Women’s Engineering Society?
I am honoured to be recognised as a Fellow of the Women’s Engineering Society (FWES). This fellowship not only highlights my commitment to the engineering field but also underpins my dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse engineering community. My involvement with WES allows me to contribute to, and advocate for the advancement of women in engineering, a cause that is very close to my heart.