Rahma Farrag-Sherif

We asked Rahma…

Which individual project or person inspired you to become a civil engineer?

My biggest inspiration was my aunt, who is also a civil engineer.

Seeing her passion for the profession and the difference she was making through her work showed me that engineering could be challenging and rewarding.

She encouraged me to believe in my abilities and inspired me to pursue a career where I could help solve problems and make a positive impact on people's lives.

Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also…

...a mum of two, proving that engineering leadership and family life can go hand in hand.

What about being a civil engineer gets you out of bed each morning?

Every day is different, and I love that.

I'm motivated by the opportunity to learn, adapt and work with talented people to create something meaningful.

Knowing that the projects we deliver will improve people's lives makes all the hard work worthwhile.

What’s one great thing that you love about civil engineering that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?

How much you learn from others. Every project brings together different disciplines, perspectives and experiences.

Even after 15 years in the industry, I'm still learning something new every day, and that's what keeps it exciting.

Which civil engineering project (past or present) do you wish you’d worked on?

Burj Khalifa.

While often recognised for its architecture, the engineering behind the world's tallest building is extraordinary.

I would have loved the opportunity to contribute to such an ambitious project and see how the different disciplines came together to make it possible.

Name one civil engineering myth you’d like to bust.

That you have to fit a certain stereotype to be a civil engineer.

Civil engineering needs people with different skills, backgrounds and perspectives.

There's a place for anyone who enjoys solving problems and making a difference.

What motivated you to become professionally qualified?

I have always been motivated by personal growth and a desire to continuously improve.

Becoming a Fellow is about more than achieving a title.

It's a way of demonstrating my commitment to developing my technical knowledge, leadership skills and professional judgement.

They also support my passion for mentoring others and leading by example.

Ultimately, I see professional development as a lifelong journey and an important part of making a meaningful contribution to the industry.

What does being professionally qualified with the ICE mean for your career?  

I'm motivated by the opportunity to give back to the profession that has given me so much.

Fellowship recognises not only technical expertise, but also leadership, mentoring and the positive impact we have on people, projects and future generations of engineers.

What’s the best thing about being professionally qualified with the ICE? 

The confidence it gave me, and the opportunity to be part of a professional community that inspires, supports and develops future engineers.

How did the ICE and your employer support you to become professionally qualified? 

I was fortunate to have supportive mentors, challenging projects and opportunities to learn throughout my career.

The ICE provided the guidance and structure, while my employers gave me the experience and encouragement to grow and achieve Fellowship.

What do you value most about being an ICE member? 

Being part of a global professional community.

How has being a member helped your career? 

ICE membership has supported my development throughout my career and connected me with engineers who are passionate about making a positive impact.

Anything else? i.e. personal causes, hobbies

Outside work, my focus is my family.

As a mum of two, I enjoy spending quality time with them, supporting their interests and making memories together.

Family keeps me grounded and gives me a different perspective on what really matters.