As a woman in engineering, what has your journey been like, and what change would you most like to see in the industry?
My journey into engineering was a bit convoluted. Growing up in a small Scottish town, there wasn’t much representation for women in engineering. I had always been drawn more to creative subjects like Music and Art, but it was when I came across a car mechanics workshop at my college, that it sparked an interest in the industry and I immediately switched courses. I qualified as a car mechanic, which motivated me to go on and study physics and maths, eventually going on to secure my degree in mechanical engineering. And here I am at RED today, designing Data Centres and energy systems to power them.
Throughout my experiences, I understand the importance of visibility for young people, especially women. It’s amazing to see the changes we’re making in the industry through the work of RED’s IDEA network - seeing STEM ambassadors work so hard to bring STEM engagement and Women in RED initiatives to the forefront of the company. I can’t wait to continue to see the impacts these have on re-shaping how women can access and grow in engineering careers.
What’s one piece of knowledge you’ve given that’s helped others grow?
I always tell junior engineers; there are no stupid questions. If you’re struggling or unsure of something, keeping quiet won't help you solve it, there is no shame in asking for help. In careers like engineering, it’s impossible to know everything, even those in more senior positions are constantly learning.
This is especially important for female engineers where we often feel a stigma around not knowing something and that being a testament to our capability, which is simply not true. The industry is constantly evolving, and we need to be asking questions and continuing to learn throughout our entire careers.
What have you gained - personally or professionally - when you supported another woman in engineering?
Now I am in a more senior role, it’s part of the job to support others. I know that I would not have been as successful in my own career without the mentorship and guidance from others, so I try to pass this on.
Whether it’s sharing lessons I learned the hard way or providing support I wish I had had when I was a junior, I see mentorship as a way to make the industry more welcoming to those starting out.
Nobody is truly self-made; we are all the sum of the people and support around us. If everyone gave what they could, the industry could be a far more inclusive place.
How do you see collaboration helping build the future of Data Centre design?
Collaboration turns a complicated problem into something exciting. Data Centre design brings together so many different disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, digital, sustainability, and none of it works in isolation. When you sit around a table with people who think differently, you learn things you wouldn’t have considered on your own, and the final design is always stronger for it.
Coming from a non‑traditional route into engineering, I really value environments where people feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and challenging the norm.
When different perspectives come together, our work is stronger. It also makes engineering feel like a place where more people can see themselves.
