Happy International Women in Engineering Day (#INWED18)!

With a large skills gap looming and the additional need for a more diverse workforce, it has never been more important to inspire and encourage more people, especially women, to choose a career in engineering.

In support of International Women in Engineering Day we would like to introduce you to Alina Cosovanu, one of our Graduate Site Engineers based in our southern region.

Firstly, can you tell us a little bit about what the average day looks like for you?

My work day starts at 7am, I put my PPE on as soon as I get to work and I assist with the briefing. After the briefing, I prioritise the tasks for that day and speak with the workers on site to give them all the information they need. At the moment, I’m responsible for two gangs. This involves making sure they follow the design correctly and produce the best quality of work possible.

Why did you choose a career in engineering? What were the major factors in your decision?

I chose a career in engineering because I have always loved maths. Growing up, I always asked the same question that many other children do: “Why do I need maths and all these formulas? I am never going to use it“

As I liked calculations and I was fascinated that all the problems can have more than one solution, I decided to choose a profession in which I can use the mathematical knowledge I learned during so many years of study.

In ten words or fewer, why do you love engineering?

Engineering challenges me and helps me develop every day.

In your opinion, why is it important that more women take up engineering in the near future?

I think that women can sometimes have a different point of view, which can mean finding different solutions. A more diverse workforce is therefore a plus for the construction industry, as it invites different ways of thinking and the potential for more innovative solutions.

Is there more that schools could do to get girls engaged from a young age?

If schools organised career days and invited young women engineers to talk about the advantages and the opportunities of engineering, it would give the students real life examples. This would be a good idea as it would give them confidence that they will be able to find employment after University.

What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a woman thinking of starting a career in engineering?

A career in engineering is rewarding and if they want to a career in the industry, they should follow their dreams.

In your experience, what are the benefits of working in engineering?

From my experience, I have noticed that women are valued in the workplace. Our opinion is heard and respected and we have the same opportunities as our male counterparts.