7 lessons from my engineering career that keep me going when I want to give up

Every year on 23 June, we celebrate International Women in Engineering Day (INWED).

As engineers, occasions such as this provide an opportunity to reflect on our journeys, the challenges we have overcome, and the lessons we have learned along the way.

Now a Chartered Civil Engineer, there have been experiences in my career that have shaped my professional and personal development.

These have turned into seven lessons that continue to guide me today.

1. Believe in yourself

One of the greatest obstacles many engineers face is self-doubt.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned that confidence isn’t about believing you know everything. It’s about trusting your ability to learn, adapt and grow.

When I moved from Portugal to the UK seven years ago, I arrived with ambition, determination and a dream of working on major infrastructure projects.

At the time, I didn’t have a job offer waiting for me, but I believed in my potential and remained focused on my goals.

As a Black woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, working in a country that speaks a different language, there were many reasons to doubt myself.

Instead, I chose to focus on my strengths, acknowledge my areas for improvement, and continue moving forward.

Believing in yourself doesn’t mean ignoring reality. It means understanding where you are today while maintaining confidence in where you can be tomorrow.

2. Take action

Engineering teaches us that nothing progresses without action.

Successful projects are delivered because individuals take responsibility, solve problems and move things forward. The same principle applies to our careers.

Many of the opportunities I have achieved didn’t happen by chance.

Whether it was joining the HS2 project, becoming a Chartered Engineer, or being selected as an ICE President's Future Leader, each milestone required preparation, commitment and persistence.

If there’s something you want to achieve, take proactive steps towards it. Opportunities often come to those who prepare for them.

3. Stay curious

Graduating from university was only the beginning of my learning journey.

The construction industry continues to evolve through new technologies, materials, sustainability requirements and innovative delivery methods. Remaining curious and committed to continuous learning is essential.

Throughout my career, I have benefited enormously from asking questions, seeking advice from experienced colleagues and embracing professional development opportunities through the ICE.

Curiosity allows us to grow, innovate and become better engineers.

4. Learn from others

Engineering is a collaborative profession.

Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned came from colleagues, mentors and industry leaders who generously shared their knowledge and experience.

Working on major infrastructure projects has exposed me to professionals from a wide range of disciplines, backgrounds and perspectives. Each interaction has contributed to my development.

One particularly influential experience was participating in the ICE President's Future Leaders Scheme. I had the privilege of learning from ICE Past President Keith Howells and a talented group of future leaders from across the industry.

Being open to feedback and willing to learn from others is one of the fastest ways to grow professionally.

5. Hard work matters

Results are not always immediate, but effort is never wasted.

I've learned that consistency, commitment and attention to detail eventually create opportunities.

Recognition often arrives when least expected, but it’s built upon years of dedication and continuous improvement.

When we fully commit ourselves to something, it gives something back to us. It may not be in the way we expected, but the value of hard work always returns.

6. Engineering is about serving others

Whenever I participate in STEM activities, young people often ask me what civil engineers do.

My answer is simple: civil engineers serve society.

Every road, bridge, railway, building and water system we design has a direct impact on people's lives.

Our work improves connectivity, safety, sustainability and quality of life for communities.

This sense of purpose is one of the reasons I’m passionate about civil engineering.

Beyond technical achievement, we have the privilege of creating infrastructure that benefits current and future generations.

7. Find your purpose

Engineering can be challenging.

There will be difficult projects, setbacks, demanding deadlines and moments when you question yourself. During those times, purpose becomes incredibly important.

Having a clear sense of why you do what you do provides resilience when challenges arise.

For me, that purpose comes from contributing to society, supporting the next generation of engineers and helping deliver infrastructure that makes a positive difference.

As I often say, we will have many opportunities to give up, but our purpose will keep us on track.

Reminding ourselves of what engineering is really about

As we celebrate INWED, I encourage all engineers, particularly those at the beginning of their careers, to believe in themselves, remain curious, seek support from others and stay connected to their purpose.

Engineering isn’t simply about designing structures. It’s about shaping communities, improving lives and creating a better future.

I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve received throughout my career and look forward to continuing to learn, contribute and support others in our profession.