As part of our celebrations for International Women’s Day on 8 March, we connected with our incredible staff across the UK to hear their stories. They shared key insights from their careers and have a lot of knowledge to pass on from years of experience. Keep reading to learn more!
EC: The majority of my projects are situated within sensitive natural environments, so, as part of the planning and licencing process, helping to secure the best outcomes for nature has to be up there.
SA: Starting my engineering career 20 years ago, I embraced challenges that strengthened my resilience. Joining Fairhurst 12 years ago as a Graduate Engineer and progressing to Technical Manager, alongside achieving chartership with the IStructE, were defining moments. These moments reflect perseverance, self-belief, and the influence of supportive family and colleagues.
KT: What I enjoy the most is seeing the people that I work with grow and progress and to achieve what they seek in their careers. For example, seeing a staff member that started as a Graduate Engineer work their way up to now be a Project Engineer in the firm. I feel proud of them, and seeing their hard work and effort being acknowledged is important for their growth and the growth of the firm.
EC: I used to feel like I was too sensitive to other’s emotions, but actually now I realise that being able to read other people is a major aspect of working effectively in a team. Identifying and proactively addressing potential disagreements or conflicts of opinion can help to avoid delays.
SA: Starting my career in a different country and later moving to the UK, I once viewed my different experience with uncertainty. Over time, I realised that diverse experience and perspective are powerful strengths. They’ve allowed me to approach challenges creatively, remain adaptable, and bring fresh thinking to the team. What once felt like standing out became a source of confidence, helping me grow both professionally and personally.
KT: We all have weaknesses, especially when it takes time to learn new technology systems. However, my skills in adaptability, patience and willingness to learn & to help others have shined in these moments.
EC: A glass of wine in a nice restaurant with family or friends.
SA: For me, celebrating a big win is about gratitude. I value taking time to recognise the collective effort behind every achievement; whether that’s a simple thank you, a team lunch, or a quiet moment to reflect on how far we’ve come. Sharing success makes it more meaningful and reminds us that progress is always a team effort built on collaboration and dedication.
KT: Celebrating milestones reminds us all to appreciate ourselves and be proud of our achievements, be it big or small. My way of celebrating a big win, would be a holiday. Something to plan and look forward too, knowing a rewarding nice holiday is around the corner.
EC: Appreciate the fact that your input as a young woman will come from a different place than the majority of people you work with. Have the confidence to raise your ideas, as you may bring a fresh perspective that others would not have considered.
SA: The best advice I received from people I trust was to be patient but persistent. Growth is rarely instant, but consistency is powerful. To young women with big ambitions: believe in your abilities, surround yourself with supportive people, and never let temporary setbacks redefine your direction. Resilience, loyalty and steady effort will always open doors.
KT: Sometimes you have to trust your gut instinct and believe in yourself to take that big leap of faith. You won’t know you will succeed unless you give yourself that chance and try. You live only once, do not fill it with too much “What Ifs” or fill it with negativity/regrets in your life. Know your self-worth and that you are number 1.
Happy International Women’s Day!
