Built by Her

What would you like to see improve for women in your industry?

"I’d love to see more women being introduced to engineering, just seeing another woman doing the job can make you think, “Maybe I can do this too.” But I also think it’s important that once women enter the industry, they feel comfortable, confident and like they belong there.

That’s why I’d love to see more change around the practical things that support women in engineering, especially women’s workwear. For a long time, workwear has felt like it was designed with men as the standard, and women have had to adapt to what was available rather than having clothing designed with us in mind. That’s why I really value what

HERSTEEL is doing by creating workwear specifically for women."

The Part People Don’t See — What challenge, setback or vulnerable moment has shaped the woman you are today?

"In my teens I had annorexia and spent far too much time in hospital but it gave me a stubborn determination—and a profound appreciation for a good piece of apple crumble.

Today, I channel that resilience into running marathons, fueled primarily by banana bread.

Professionally, my biggest hurdle has been imposter syndrome. As one of the only people in my cohort without prior practical experience, I initially felt out of my depth. I had to initiate honest conversations with my team about my development and accept that I need a structured plan to succeed, rather than just winging it."

To the Next Woman — What would you tell a woman or young girl considering following in your footsteps?

"Build real, solid expertise. Let your competence speak for itself. Learn to communicate clearly and hold your boundaries. And never doubt yourself, even when someone else tries to make you feel small for taking up space. Keep speaking out about your achievements.

That's exactly why platforms like HERSTEEL matter, they give us the space to be heard.

What got me through it were the women in this field who mentored me and believed in my abilities along the way. I don't think people always see how much of that journey happens quietly, in the background, before you ever land the job."

Being a Woman in Industry — Have you ever felt you had to prove yourself or that women were an afterthought?

"ALWAYS, whether that was doing extra practice to be able to confidently reverse the massive heavy haulage trailers just so I couldn’t get labelled as a 'typical woman driver'. I love the fact a driver cannot tell me they can't do something as i will just do it for them - I think i have earned more respect for my driving experience and this is something other Transport Managers struggle with."