Being Pick Everard: Afroza Akter

What does International Women in Engineering Day mean to you?

International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) is a day to celebrate and recognize the achievements of women in the engineering field. To me, it represents the opportunity to highlight the incredible contributions women have made to engineering and inspire future generations to pursue careers in this field. It’s a reminder of how far we've come in breaking down barriers, but also an acknowledgment of the ongoing work needed to achieve true equality and inclusivity. INWED is a chance to reflect on the women who paved the way and to encourage young girls and women to believe that they, too, can thrive in engineering.

Can you tell us about your role and how long have you been here?

I am a Graduate Civil Engineer at Pick Everard, having joined the company in September 2024. As a Graduate Civil Engineer, my role involves supporting the design and implementation of water and highway engineering projects. In water engineering, I assist in designing pipeline and manhole systems to ensure efficient water distribution and waste management. For highway engineering, I contribute to pavement design, utilizing tools like Civil 3D and Autodesk software.

What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering, and how did that path lead you to Pick Everard?

My passion for problem-solving and creating practical solutions inspired me to pursue a career in engineering. From a young age, I was fascinated by how infrastructure is built to serve communities. This led me to study civil engineering, where I developed a strong interest in water and highway projects. I joined Pick Everard in September 2024, drawn by their reputation for innovation and their diverse range of projects, offering an excellent platform for professional growth and hands-on experience.

What’s been your most defining experience as a woman in engineering, and how did you overcome any challenges?

As a woman in engineering, my biggest challenge has been working in a field where men are usually the majority. At first, some people doubted my abilities simply because of my gender. Many still believe engineering is a "male job" and think it’s not the best career for women. The number of women in engineering is still very low, mostly due to these outdated views. I also faced resistance from my parents, who were not happy when I chose engineering as my career. They thought it wasn’t the right path for me. However, I didn’t let these challenges stop me. I focused on learning, gaining experience, and showing my skills through hard work. Over time, I earned respect from my colleagues. Now, my parents are proud of what I’ve achieved, especially seeing how I’ve succeeded at Pick Everard. They’re also happy with the flexibility of hybrid working, which lets them see my progress.

What needs to be done to make engineering more accessible and inclusive for women?

To make engineering more accessible for women, we need to challenge the idea that it’s a “male-only” field. Encouraging young girls to study STEM subjects and offering mentoring can help inspire them to pursue engineering. Volunteering sessions in schools and colleges can also guide female students toward this career. Companies should offer better maternity leave and create flexible working conditions to support women. Additionally, reducing stress in the workplace is important, as many women face pressure that affects their mental health. A supportive, balanced work environment will make engineering more attractive and sustainable for women.

Your Top 3 goals for the next 5 years?

1. Professional Development: I aim to gain further expertise in water and highway engineering, particularly by becoming proficient in advanced software tools like Civil 3D and Autodesk. I also plan to work towards a chartered status with a professional engineering institution.
2. Leadership Opportunities: I aspire to take on more leadership roles, such as leading small project teams, to develop my project management and team collaboration skills.
3. For Equality and Diversity: I hope to actively contribute to initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion within the engineering field, especially by mentoring and encouraging more women to pursue careers in engineering. I am to attach myself more in volunteering session to promote women in engineering.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in engineering?

My advice to young women considering a career in engineering is to stay confident and trust in your abilities. Engineering is a field where problem-solving and creativity are key, and gender should never limit your potential. Don’t be discouraged by misconceptions or challenges—use them as motivation to prove your capabilities. Seek out mentors, both male and female, who can guide and inspire you. Also, get involved in STEM activities, summer internships or year out placement by applying to any engineering company websites, attending on job fairs and volunteering to gain practical experience. Most importantly, remember that your unique perspective as a woman can bring valuable insights to the engineering industry. Stay determined, and don’t be afraid to push boundaries!