Helping move the dial towards gender parity

Year on year our green hydrogen team has been growing in strength. Our passionate experts are helping drive worldwide momentum to hit net zero goals and push transformation in the way we consume energy.

In celebration of the groundbreaking initiative Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) marking its 40^th anniversary, we shone the spotlight on some of the women working within our green hydrogen team. Read more about what they do and how they have helped move the dial for gender parity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Tracy Scott, Development Director – Green Hydrogen

What is your engineering discipline and what previous roles have you held? 

Electrical Engineer (CEng, FIET) and I was previously a Project Manager in Wind and Battery Storage.

How did you get into Engineering and what do you enjoy about it? 

As a farmer’s daughter, I would always prefer to be in a boiler suit somewhere with Dad fixing something rather than baking with my mum and sisters so when it came to GCSE choices maths, physics and Design Technology were top of my list. I love the fact that every day is a different challenge and I get immense satisfaction when our hard work finally pays off.

What advice would you give to a female student looking to follow engineering as a career?

Never be afraid to ask questions even if you think they sound daft because you can be certain there are others around you thinking the exact same thing who are too afraid to ask.

Aisling Brazel, Senior Process Engineer

What is your engineering discipline and what previous roles have you held? 

Chemical and Bioprocess Engineer and I’ve previously held roles as an Environmental Engineer, Operations Process Engineer, and Process Designer.

How did you get into Engineering and what do you enjoy about it? 

A great science teacher at my high school spotted my “engineer’s brain” and (gently!) pushed me into it. She arranged two weeks of work experience with the head of Engineering Manufacturing at Trinity College Dublin when I was 16, and I never looked back. At its base, engineering is just problem-solving, which is a really useful skill to develop in all areas of life. It’s very rewarding using engineering logic and creativity to try and address the challenges of the energy transition.

What advice would you give to a female student looking to follow engineering as a career?

Back yourself! Entering a male-dominated field can feel intimidating at first, but don’t be afraid to speak up and participate in your own way. It also helps to find a great female mentor to give you a boost when needed. 

Bola Sangosanya, Senior Hydrogen Integration Manger – Green Hydrogen

What’s your engineering discipline and what previous roles have you held?

I’m an Electrical Engineer (CEng, MEI) and my previous roles include Consultant, Project Engineer, Project Engineering Manager, Electrical Engineer, and Senior Systems Engineer.

How did you get into Engineering and what do you enjoy about it? 

To be honest, I just wanted to study Chemistry! I lived and breathed this in high school. However, Guidance & Counselling (aka Big Brothers) insisted I study something professional – so Chemical Engineering it was, until I got into a competitive scholarship scheme and my only offer was Electrical Engineering. Mum thought this was serendipity as I had always tinkered with electrical repairs (TV, cables, fans) at home. I love finding practical solutions to real-life challenges and problems and seeing the design on paper come into 3D full scale operational projects – the euphoric feeling is immense.

What advice would you give to a female student looking to follow engineering as a career?

A few early years gender parity rallying mantras come to mind, but what I’d say is “impossible is nothing”, you just believe in yourself and in your abilities.

Paula Batchelor, Project Manager – Hydrogen

What is your engineering discipline and what previous roles have you held?

I’m a Civil Engineer (CEng MICE), and previous roles I have held include Construction Engineer, Construction Site Manager, Civil Design Engineer, Design Manager.

How did you get into Engineering and what do you enjoy about it? 

At school I wanted to be an archaeologist (Indiana Jones fan) but my Dad suggested that if I wanted to spend my days in muddy excavations I should also consider civil engineering. I did and discovered a new passion! I get to solve problems and make a difference. It’s also very satisfying being able to see a physical end product. There’s always something new to learn and a huge amount of diversity in role and career opportunities.

What advice would you give to female student looking to follow engineering as a career?

When a women goes into engineering it’s because we have a passion for it and that is why women make brilliant engineers. Be confident therefore that you belong at the table and your contribution is valuable!