International Women in Engineering Day 2022

Melanie Maldonado, Packing Scheme Manager, River Thames Scheme

How I became an engineer

From an early age, I was unsure what I wanted as a future career but following a really engaging conversation with a family friend who was a civil engineer, I became fascinated by his line of work. I decided to follow in their footsteps and study engineering, so I went for it! I completed my 'A' levels in physics and maths - good options that fit well for a career in engineering. Another main driver for me was my mum's encouragement. She always thought I would be good in this type of job role, and it would provide job security. This motivated me to work against the typical stereotype that only males can be engineers and play a role in creating change for the engineering sector, through challenging the status quo in the industry.

Since graduating, I always aspired to work for the Environment Agency. Although I have gained extensive experience working for consultancy companies in highways, structures, and rail over the past 20 years, I wanted to re-focus on sustainability and the environment. I joined the River Thames Scheme because I was looking for a new challenge and wanted to gain experience working for the client. The magnitude and complexity of the program, as well as the benefits and the positive impact it will have on the communities inspired me.

My current role is in the project management and leadership team, managing the technical aspects of the River Thames Scheme. I lead the client team working with our suppliers and other parts of the scheme.

I thoroughly enjoy my role. It allows me to work on delivering projects on the ground, which is always exciting. It might sound cheesy - but it is all about the people I work with. I find it extremely rewarding being in a job where dynamic, motivated people are pulling together to deliver something of nationally significant importance, and supporting each other along the way. When visiting London, I gain great satisfaction when I pass by projects I have previously worked on and were some of my first achievements in structural engineering. A significant highlight of my career is being able to show my children the new railway station platform that I was involved in creating - great tangible evidence of my job!

What challenges have you experienced as a woman in engineering?

I have been fortunate to have many fantastic co-workers who believe in equality and few who feel threatened by or dismissive of women. Additionally, I have been brought up by both my parents to be confident to notice and challenge inequality when I see it – whether towards me or others.

However, I have experienced blatant sexism, whether being asked to take the minutes or being called 'girlie'! In situations when I've been put down or mocked for voicing innovative ideas in meetings, sometimes where I've been the only woman, I have been grateful for the people who amplified my voice when I was not heard.

What can the industry do to promote more women in engineering?

For change to take place, it is necessary to challenge how the industry operates currently and ensure equal opportunities for children and young people. There is a need to promote awareness of the different types of engineering. As a former STEMNET Ambassador, I enjoyed visiting schools. Recruitment and job advertisements need to be more inclusive and there is still a great deal of work to be done to promote more women in engineering, including:

• We should question gender stereotyping in everyday life.
• Stop imposing gender stereotypes on our children and youth and call out those who do so.
• Encourage a cross-section of our staff to participate in outreach activities, such as STEMNET ambassadors visiting schools and speaking about engineering.
• Encourage the participation of diverse voices.
• Educate yourself about conscious and unconscious bias - we are all responsible for it, and the information is readily available. If you have not already done so, challenge yourself to make a difference! If you wish to achieve equality for yourself, your colleagues, friends, and your family, you need to be a part of the solution.

What advice would you give someone starting their engineering journey today?

Well, that's a hard one, it's impossible to provide a one-size-fits-all piece of advice! Is it true that we only listen to the advice we want? What I have found useful is something Antonio Machado once said in his famous Spanish poem: "Caminante, no hay camino, se hace camino al andar", which translates as "Walker, there is no path, the path is made by walking". My advice to those just starting out in their careers would be that you do not need to follow in anyone else's footsteps. Not everyone has to follow the same path; create your own story, whether that be career choices or not feeling the need to fit the mould!

This year's theme is 'inventors and innovators' what is your vision of the future that will change the industry for the better?

To put it simply - sustainability. I am very inspired by all of the wonderful work people do to increase our sustainability as an industry. I believe that practitioners need to find ways to embed these innovations into projects: make them the status quo, encourage more innovation, and expedite the transition to a sustainable future.

If you want to make a difference and join us, you can find future career opportunities via The River Thames Scheme Careers page.