To mark International Women in Engineering Day, we spoke with Ola Atoba, Maintenance Engineering Manager, about her career journey and the advice she would share with women looking to start a career in Engineering.
What skills do you need?
“Engineering is about more than just technical expertise. While knowledge and practical skills are important, confidence, communication and teamwork are just as critical to success. Many women face a lack of encouragement from an early age, often influenced by outdated perceptions of engineering as a male-dominated career”. Ola goes onto say that “building confidence and challenging these assumptions is a key step towards entering and thriving in the industry”.
The ability to solve problems is essential
At the heart of engineering is problem-solving. Whether managing breakdowns or improving processes, the ability to assess situations, prioritise effectively and respond quickly is essential. Adaptability is equally important, as no two days are the same and engineers are often balancing multiple challenges at once.
Key to success is embracing continuous learning and personal growth. “Engineering offers constant opportunities to develop new skills and gain hands-on experience. Being open to learning and not being afraid to step outside your comfort zone can make a significant difference in both confidence and career progression”.
“Another important factor is mentorship and support networks. Having access to role models and guidance helps challenge barriers, reinforces that women are just as capable, and provides encouragement during career development. Strong mentorship can play a vital role in building confidence and opening up new opportunities”.
Finally, Ola highlights the importance of inclusive and collaborative environments. “Engineering rarely happens in isolation; it requires working closely with different teams and stakeholders. Supportive colleagues and allies help create a culture where everyone feels valued and able to contribute”.
Ola’s top 5 pieces of advice to women considering engineering:
- Build confidence: Believe in your abilities and challenge outdated perceptions.
- Focus on people skills: Communication and teamwork are as important as technical knowledge.
- Embrace problem-solving: Learn to prioritise, adapt and tackle challenges head-on.
- Be open to learning: Take every opportunity to grow and develop new skills.
- Seek mentorship and value inclusion: Find role models and support networks to guide and inspire you, while embracing collaborative, diverse environments where everyone can thrive.
Ola’s message is simple but powerful: engineering is for everyone. With the right mindset, support and willingness to grow, women can build successful, rewarding careers and play a vital role in shaping the future of the industry.