Harriet Kirk
Senior Geotechnical Engineer, Atkins
Harriet studied for a degree in history before deciding to change careers – she went back to university for four years to study Civil Engineering. Realising she enjoyed the geotechnical modules, she decided to specialise in ground engineering.
There aren’t that many visible role models of women in engineering, particularly in senior roles, so girls may never pick up on it as an option. And when I was at school, engineering was never suggested as a career to girls, even ones like me studying maths and physics.
What challenges do women face getting into your industry?
I think the main challenges are around expectations of what an engineer looks like (typically a white man in a hard hat) and expectations of what girls will enjoy or be capable of.
What needs to change?
Within the industry we need to be constantly challenging unconscious biases – there is lots of evidence that people hire people who remind them of themselves, so if you don’t fit into the industry norm it’s harder to get a break.
Any Advice for Women in Male Dominated Industries?
Give it a go – be committed and good at what you do, and there’s no reason why you can’t excel. Don’t worry about being the only woman on site – it usually means you get a nice clean toilet all to yourself!