This week saw International Women in Engineering Day, as 23 June marked the 11th annual celebration of this important occasion. This is Part 2 of a two-part series.
Q: Can you share a moment in your career when you faced a significant challenge as a woman in engineering? How did you navigate or overcome that situation?
A: As a woman in engineering, you are met with challenges as early as your first class in university, where you are undermined if you choose to look feminine and not fit in with the narrative that women in Engineering are “tomboyish”. When I started my career 16 years ago, I was confronted with the sad reality that I have to prove myself and my worthiness to occupy the role I was fulfilling and shockingly this emanated from other women more than it did from men. My lack of desire for validation and acceptance from others helped me to navigate this unfortunate challenge. I chose to be unapologetically feminine in a manly environment and channelled my energy towards developing my skills as an Engineer.
Q: From your experience, what are some of the main obstacles women face in the engineering sector in South Africa? Have you seen progress in recent years?
A: There is a belief that women are given their roles and not earned, thus often women are expected to constantly prove their worthiness to occupy their roles despite their qualifications, experience and proven track record. Furthermore, in some instances their growth is measured on their ability to be submissive to their male colleagues instead of their ability to deliver on their appointment. Having said that, I must acknowledge that in my journey within the sector the ratio of men who have treated me with respect and dignity as a fellow Engineer surpasses those who did not. Most of the Engineering knowledge and skillsets I have acquired has been poured over my cup by male colleagues and mentors.
There has certainly been progress in recent years in how women are treated within the Engineering sector; less women feel the need to seek approval to be recognised for their worth or the need to overcompensate to be taken serious in the sector, which is quite refreshing to witness.
Q: Your current role focuses more on business development than technical engineering. What inspired your transition, and what engineering skills have proven most valuable in your business role?
A: My passion for continuous development and my inquisitiveness to learn without boundaries has led to my multiple career pronouns as a Technician, Proposals Engineer, Project Manager, Senior Associate, Synergy Strategist, Consultant, Energy Manager and Senior Business Development Manager. In every role I have been privileged to occupy, each experience prior has been a prerequisite that empowered and gave me skillsets and knowledge that has led to my success in each role. Much like electrons that flow through a conductor when potential difference better known as voltage is applied, I have allowed my potential to guide me through my career path which has resulted in this multifaceted Engineer that I am today.
Q: What advice would you give to young women who are just beginning their journey in STEM or considering a career in engineering? Is there something you wish you had known when you were starting out?
A: When choosing a career in engineering, it is key to understand that you do not choose it merely because you are good at math and science but understand that you must be called to serve as an Engineer. Much like doctors & nurses are called to heal and educators are called to teach, Engineers are called to constantly find solutions to improve the way of living. At your core you must have the desire to find solutions, once you have that you will be able to face any challenge that a career in Engineering comes with.
Lastly, to play in the field of Engineering, it is not about physical strength but rather your mental strength!
Source: Yellow Door Energy