News
23 Jun 2026
What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?
From an early age, I was very conscious of environmental issues and wanted a career that allowed me to make a tangible difference. Initially, I thought that meant going into renewables, but that wasn’t a clearly defined route when I applied to university – so I chose mechanical engineering as a way in.
While studying, I discovered building services engineering and realised the huge impact the built environment has on carbon emissions. That’s what ultimately led me into my current role blending both sustainability and operational energy.
I’ve always enjoyed maths and physics, but also the creative side of problem-solving, and engineering gives you the perfect balance of both. Having my mum as an engineer was also a big inspiration growing up.
What opportunities does being at Hollis give you as an engineer?
One of the standout things about Hollis is the diversity within the engineering team. Having a mix of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences makes a real difference when it comes to solving complex problems.
Personally, I’ve been given the opportunity to lead and shape our relatively new Building optimisation service, which is incredibly exciting, especially at this stage in my career. There’s a real sense of trust and autonomy, and I’m relishing the chance to help grow something from the ground up.
It’s also a great place to gain exposure to different sectors and project stages, particularly in an increasingly important and relevant field of operational energy.
Have you faced any challenges as a woman in engineering, and how have you overcome them?
Yes, like many women in the industry, I’ve often found myself as the only woman in the room, which can lead to imposter syndrome and a feeling of not always being able to relate. There’s also still a lack of visible female role models in senior technical positions in the industry, which can make it harder to picture long-term career progression.
Some of the challenges are more subtle, such as unconscious bias, assumptions, or being underestimated in your abilities, but they do add up.
What’s helped me most is building a strong support network. Finding mentors, surrounding yourself with people who support you, and having allies in the workplace makes a big difference. But it’s also about backing yourself, and speaking up, taking up space, and pushing past imposter syndrome, recognising that everyone experiences it at some point.
You’re the Global Vice Chair for CIBSE’s Young Engineer’s Network—why is this important to you?
Being involved in CIBSE has been hugely valuable for me, both professionally and personally. It gives building services engineers exposure beyond your day-to-day role and helps you build a broader understanding of the industry outside your own company.
For me, it’s also been about community. I moved to London from Scotland at the start of my career, and it really helped me to build a network and find people at similar stages I could relate to.
On top of that, getting involved in your professional institution is always a great platform for continued professional development, building visibility, and developing skills you might not get in a traditional office environment. CIBSE has opened up endless opportunities for me to travel, attend events, and connect with a wide range of people across the industry.
If you could work on any building or project, what would it be?
Honestly, I’m not tied to one specific ‘dream’ project, what matters most is being part of a project that runs collaboratively and successfully, and where we can prove significant energy savings!
That said, it would be amazing to work on an iconic heritage building, like Edinburgh Castle or Buckingham Palace. I know my younger self would think I was super cool if she knew I was working on a project like that!
What advice would you give to girls or women thinking about becoming an engineer?
Go for it – and take up as much space as you can, because you deserve to be there just as much as anyone else!
Find your people – whether that’s mentors, peers or a professional network, and don’t be afraid to lean on them for support and advice.
Imposter syndrome is completely normal, but don’t let it hold you back. Speak up, back yourself, and remember that everyone is figuring it out as they go.
And finally, try to lift others up along the way and give back to your community. Even small actions can make a real difference.