Esther Wangari, Engineer, Water Supply & Sanitation, Kenya

What does this theme mean to you?
The ‘Enhanced by Engineering’ theme highlights the profound impact that engineering has on enhancing our daily lives and shaping a sustainable future. It celebrates the crucial role that women engineers play in driving innovation and overcoming challenges to make meaningful contributions. To me, this theme is a tribute to the creativity, perseverance, and dedication that women bring to the engineering field. It emphasises the importance of diversity and inclusion in creating well-rounded and effective solutions to the world’s problems.

What has been really fulfilling as an engineer and what is your proudest achievement?
One of the most fulfilling aspects of being an engineer is seeing the tangible results of my work positively impact society. Whether it’s through developing new technologies, improving processes, or solving complex problems, knowing that my contributions make a difference is incredibly rewarding. My proudest achievement was leading a project to develop a sustainable water system for marginalised communities in northern Kenya. This initiative not only provides clean drinking water but also empowers the local population, especially women and children. Witnessing the immediate and long-term benefits of our efforts on the community’s health and well-being was immensely satisfying.

Do you think your perspective as a woman has enhanced projects you have worked on?
Definitely. As a woman in engineering, I bring a unique perspective that often emphasises collaboration, empathy, and inclusivity. These qualities help in creating more comprehensive and user-friendly solutions. For instance, in projects involving diverse user groups, my perspective ensures that designs cater to a wider range of needs and preferences, leading to more accessible and effective outcomes. Additionally, fostering a diverse team encourages different viewpoints, enhancing creativity and innovation in problem-solving.

What emerging trends or technologies in engineering are you most excited about?
I am particularly excited about advancements in water supply and sanitation technologies, especially with the integration of cutting-edge modelling software like Bentley products and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Smart water management systems using IoT and sensors, paired with Bentley’s hydraulic modelling tools, enable real-time monitoring and proactive maintenance, reducing water loss and ensuring reliable supply. GIS enhances the visualisation and analysis of water networks, aiding in comprehensive decision-making. Advanced hydraulic modelling through Bentley’s suite allows for optimising system performance and designing efficient water and wastewater networks. Sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling, are optimised using these tools for maximum efficiency. Additionally, big data analytics integrated with GIS and modelling software facilitates data-driven decision-making, addressing challenges like water scarcity and pollution. Overall, these advancements promise more efficient, sustainable, and resilient water infrastructure, improving quality of life globally.

What message would you like to send out to all female engineers around the world on this important day?
To all female engineers: your contributions are invaluable, and your presence in the engineering field makes a significant impact. Continue to pursue your passions with confidence and resilience. Embrace both challenges and triumphs, knowing that each step you take paves the way for future generations of women in engineering. Let’s keep supporting one another, breaking barriers, and innovating for a brighter and more inclusive future. Your work not only improves lives but also inspires many others to follow your path.

Mobina Zafar, Software Engineer, Pakistan

What does this theme mean to you?
The theme ‘enhanced by engineering’ resonates deeply with me as it highlights the profound impact engineering has on improving our everyday lives. As a woman in engineering, it’s inspiring to see recognition of the critical role we play in driving innovation and solving real-world problems. This theme also underscores the importance of diversity in engineering, as different perspectives lead to more creative and effective solutions. It emphasises the contributions of women engineers who are not only enhancing technology but also shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.

What has been really fulfilling as an engineer and what is your proudest achievement?
One of the most fulfilling aspects of being an engineer is the ability to see tangible results from my work. Knowing that the systems and solutions I have developed are making a difference in critical sectors like hydropower, irrigation, and urban development is incredibly rewarding. My proudest achievement is being part of Pakistan’s first-of-its-kind project in managed services/integrated solutions named “Consultancy Services for GIS Survey and Geo-Database Development for the entire National Highways Authority Network (12,131 KM).” This project has helped NHA, our client, to significantly improve its management of road assets while underpinning more strategic and informed decision-making. The system was very well appreciated by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. I am also honoured to have received the prestigious SJ International Award as a Young Professional Female in 2019, a significant achievement that has brought pride and impact to women in engineering.

Do you think your perspective as a woman has enhanced projects you have worked on?
My perspective as a woman has brought a unique and valuable dimension to the projects I’ve worked on. Women often bring different viewpoints and problem-solving approaches that can lead to more holistic and user-centred designs. In my experience, this has been particularly beneficial in projects involving community infrastructure and services, where understanding diverse needs is crucial. Additionally, fostering an inclusive team environment where diverse perspectives are valued has always led to more innovative and effective solutions.

What emerging trends or technologies in engineering are you most excited about?
I am particularly excited about the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, which are revolutionising various sectors by enabling smarter, more efficient systems and driving innovation across industries. Furthermore, the incorporation of the Internet of Things (IoT) into diverse engineering endeavours is fostering the development of increasingly interconnected and streamlined systems. This has also inspired me to pursue a PhD Degree in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Seeing these trends evolve and being part of their implementation is both exciting and fulfilling.

What message would you like to send out to all female engineers around the world on this important day?
To all the female engineers around the world, I want to say: Your contributions are invaluable, and your presence in this field is vital. Never underestimate the impact you can have through your work. Continue to push boundaries, break barriers, innovate, and inspire future generations of women engineers. The challenges you face are opportunities for growth and change. Let’s keep supporting each other and advocating for more diversity and inclusion in engineering. Together, we are building a brighter future.

Helen Baxter-Crawford, Technical Principal – Engineering Geologist, Australia

What does this theme mean to you?
This theme highlights the significant progress being made in promoting gender equality within engineering and scientific fields. For me, it highlights the importance of representation and inclusion, ensuring that women have access to the same opportunities as men. It’s heartening to witness more women entering these traditionally male-dominated fields, breaking barriers, and contributing their unique perspectives and talents. This shift not only benefits the individuals involved but also enriches the fields with diverse ideas and approaches, leading to innovative solutions and advancements.

What has been really fulfilling as an engineer and what is your proudest achievement?
As an engineering geologist the most fulfilling aspect of my career has been the opportunity to work on major projects that have a significant impact on the country and beyond. These projects have taken me to places I might never have visited otherwise, broadening my horizons, and enriching my professional and personal life. My proudest achievement has been mentoring and educating young female geologists and engineers in regions like Pakistan, Indonesia, and Tibet. Empowering the next generation of women in these fields is incredibly rewarding, knowing that I am helping to pave the way for more women to succeed in their careers.

Do you think your perspective as a woman has enhanced projects you have worked on?
Absolutely, my perspective as a woman has enhanced the projects I’ve worked on. Women often excel at multitasking and managing various aspects of life simultaneously. This ability to juggle multiple responsibilities translates well into project management, where organisation and coordination are crucial. By bringing these skills to the table, women can help streamline processes, reduce inefficiencies, and ensure that projects are completed more smoothly and successfully. Our approach can transform the chaos of construction into a well-coordinated effort, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

What emerging trends or technologies in engineering are you most excited about?
One of the most exciting emerging trends in engineering is the development of hand-held technologies that provide near-instant analysis of rock chemistry. These advancements are revolutionising the field, allowing for quicker and more accurate data collection on-site. Such technologies enhance decision-making processes, improve safety, and increase efficiency in various engineering projects. The ability to understand geological conditions in real-time is a game-changer, offering new possibilities and driving the industry forward with innovative solutions.

What message would you like to send out to all female engineers around the world on this important day?
To all the female engineers and engineering geologists around the world, my message is one of empowerment and encouragement. Believe in your abilities and determination, as they are the keys to overcoming any challenge you face. Whether it’s moving mountains or tunnelling under them – continue to push boundaries, break stereotypes, and inspire others with your achievements. Your contributions are vital, and your potential is limitless.

The stories and insights from Esther Wangari, Mobina Zafar, and Helen Baxter-Crawford illustrate the remarkable contributions of women engineers at SJ Group. Their dedication, innovation, and unique perspectives are enhancing lives and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. On this International Women in Engineering Day, we celebrate their achievements.