In an inspiring interview, Molly, a Project Engineer at Veolia Water Technologies UK, shares her journey in the water treatment industry and her commitment to sustainable engineering. From her academic pursuits in Mechanical Engineering to winning the 'Personal Investment in Excellence' Champion award, Molly's experience offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of being a female engineer in the water treatment sector.
What inspired you to pursue a career in water treatment and technologies?
I originally started my progression into project engineering while at university, where my final year dissertation was to plan out a project for the installation of solar panels with a few of my peers. During these works, I found that project engineering was a good fit for me, and the fact that it was also a project focused on sustainability stuck with me.
After some research into various industries, I found that water treatment was a good fit as the work helps contribute to a more sustainable and ecologically green future. From producing clean water to optimising systems for maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
Can you tell us about your path to becoming a Project Engineer?
I have always leaned more towards the sciences and maths than the languages, it just made more sense to my brain!
I went from a Sixth Form in Wolverhampton down south to the University of Portsmouth, where I undertook my integrated Master's in Mechanical Engineering. I can honestly say that those four years of my life held the toughest moments but also the most rewarding ones. The support from peers, professors and friends reaffirmed the need to work in a collaborative environment in the future, which I have found while working at Veolia Water Technologies UK.
As a Project Engineer, my current role is to keep the plates spinning on a day-to-day, week-to-week basis. I work alongside a Project Manager, and between us, we plan for work to be done, come up with solutions to any issues that crop up and also look back and learn from projects past.
Our projects span the Industrial, Pharmaceutical, and Renal sectors, each presenting their own unique set of requirements. This variety not only demands adaptability but also necessitates tailoring our approach to meet the specific needs of individual clients.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day for me always starts with a coffee and checking the diary. There’s usually a meeting to attend, be it an internal discussion or an external consultation with a client. Following this, I will often have a site, always ensuring my PPE is securely packed in the car beforehand. There are numerous calls from suppliers or clients to discuss upcoming or ongoing works throughout the day, and usually, there’s a calm lunch with my colleagues where we unwind for a while in the middle of the day before getting right back to it.
As a woman in a STEM field, have you faced any unique challenges?
I think the main challenge I face is my confidence and overthinking. It can be daunting as a young and fresh engineer straight out of university, aged 22, to go into situations where you are surrounded by older male engineers who have so much more experience than you. I addressed this by simply pretending to be confident in these situations. I’d then find myself sitting there thinking ‘Oh, this is fine!’ and ‘Oh, actually I am learning and contributing here!’ and the confidence would start to solidify into something real.
As a woman in engineering, I've found great value in engaging with institutes like the ISPE, which offers support groups specifically for women in the field. These networks provide opportunities to chat with like-minded professionals in the industry, highlighting the fact that there are many women in engineering, all eager to support and encourage the next generation.
What do you find most rewarding about working in the water technologies industry?
I like that we work across so many different industries, from Municipal where we work with Wastewater treatment, to small installations in hospitals where we are ultra-purifying water for Renal use. There’s always another area to learn about, which keeps things interesting!
Can you tell us about the Veolia Award you won and what it means to you?
So, I won the ‘Personal Investment in Excellence’ Champion award for Veolia Water Technologies UK. I can honestly say I was not expecting to hear my name among the nominees, let alone win! I’m so grateful to my colleagues for nominating me for this, and it really means a lot to me to be recognised in such a way in front of everyone.
How do you think we can encourage more girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM, particularly in water technologies?
I believe we need to showcase more of what we do and engage with younger audiences at earlier stages, even from GCSE level. At this point, young people are already contemplating their futures and potential career paths. While they may not immediately decide that "Water Treatment is the way to go!", introducing them to this industry and the careers it offers can plant important seeds. There are a lot of future opportunities and developments as we strive to improve water conditions around the world, meaning there are always new careers presenting themselves in water treatment.
What advice would you give to women considering a career in this field?
Give it a shot! I did, and I am happy to say I’ve found my place at Veolia Water Technologies UK. The work is rewarding, the people are great, and the culture is supportive.
There are so many different ways to be involved in the water cycle, from treating ground and wastewater in municipal projects to designing tailored lab systems for pharmaceutical and scientific clients. This field offers opportunities to immerse yourself in various aspects of both the water cycle and the engineering process. There's a niche where you can make a significant impact.
How has Veolia supported your professional growth and development?
Since joining the company, I've been offered various training opportunities. In the coming year, I'll be taking my first step towards APM certification while also participating in the company's internal Talent Programme. Personal development is continuous here, with tailored Personal Development Programmes available to each employee.
The wealth of information and training resources available to employees is impressive. These can be targeted and customised to your specific needs, or you can have a say in choosing what you want to pursue. Throughout the year, various workshops are organised to further enhance our skills and knowledge.
I've always felt comfortable seeking guidance or help when needed. Colleagues are consistently willing to assist if they can or direct you to the right resources if they can't. There's a culture here that embraces learning and development, where no question is considered stupid. We all want to grow professionally, so everyone is happy to lend a hand. This supportive environment has been crucial in my professional growth and confidence.
Inspired by Molly's journey? We're always looking for talented individuals to join our team. Whether you're interested in apprenticeships, internships, or full-time positions, visit our Career Hub to explore exciting opportunities at Veolia. Your future in sustainable engineering starts here.
