Steena Nasapen-Watson

We asked Steena…

I would recommend a career in civil engineering because…

It’s by far the most diverse environment that anyone could get involved in.

The ability to contribute and work on infrastructure projects that the whole human race as well as the natural world now relies on is a privilege (and a challenge).

The words ‘civil engineering’ don’t do justice to the variety of activities that sit beneath this discipline.

The options are endless, and all as interesting as each other, if one has the right attitude.

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

...an environmentalist, a water enthusiast, a diplomat, a mentor and sometimes an artist.

What’s the biggest/most complex thing you’ve made out of Lego?

It would have to be the Lego Bridge at the ICE headquarters, and I can’t claim any credit to making it, but only contributing to a tiny part of it.

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

Currently, it’s supporting other civil engineers.

But when I was in industry, it was the thirst of bringing solutions to life and resolving issues. I never got bored of this drive.

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 it affects daily life, from the minute we open our eyes, in a warm house, to understanding how the commodities reached us.

Whether that’s furniture, clothes, food…

Then to water running out of the tap (which we take for granted), to then popping the kettle on for a cup of tea. How did the electricity come to us?

The list goes on…

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

The Thames Barrier.

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

Civil engineering is not just about buildings!

Has civil engineering helped you overcome any personal hurdles/difficulties?

Yes, public speaking, and not worrying about not fitting in.

What motivated you to become professionally qualified? 

Becoming chartered felt like natural progression. I wanted to be recognised for my expertise.

Fellowship felt like the culmination of my experience and knowledge.

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

It's a personal achievement, and gives me peer and industry recognition.

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

Global recognition.

What do you value most about being an ICE member? 

Being part of an internationally recognised institution with like-minded professionals.

How has being a member helped your career?

In previous employments, being chartered helped me in applying for technical jobs where my expertise was needed.

The fact that I was chartered was recognised as a sign that I’m an upholder of standards and professionalism, therefore making me credible and sought after.

Anything else? i.e. personal causes, hobbies

Volunteering in the water sector.