As part of International Women in Engineering Day on 23 June, we're hearing from female engineers about their experiences and how they're encouraging more women and girls to consider engineering as a career.
Property and Estates Manager Jodie Carroll shares her career journey.
International Women in Engineering Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women across our industry and the diverse range of careers that support it. It is also a chance to reflect on the importance of learning, growth and encouraging others to reach their potential.
While I’m not an engineer myself, I am proud to work for a business that delivers an essential service and that I’m able to support the people and locations that enable that important work to happen.
I do know from my own career the importance of continuous learning, professional development and having the confidence to pursue new challenges.
As a Chartered Property Surveyor within the Property department, one of my key roles is to manage the property portfolio that supports our business operations.
This includes acquiring new property (including offices, depots and land), disposals, agreeing and negotiating commercial leases and managing them throughout their term. Having the right offices, depots and workplaces supports our colleagues to carry out their roles effectively and safely.
My route into the profession wasn't the traditional university experience. I studied for my degree while working full-time, balancing work commitments with lectures, coursework and exam preparation.
There were many challenging times, but I stayed focused on the long-term goal and the opportunities getting qualified would create. Looking back, it remains one of the most rewarding achievements of my career.
Completing my degree was a significant milestone, but I wanted to continue developing professionally. I therefore went on to achieve chartered status, a journey that required further dedication, learning and personal growth.
This is most definitely my proudest achievement and has helped open new opportunities by broadening my professional experience. I am incredibly grateful to SGN and particularly my manager for supporting my development throughout this journey.
So what does all this have to do with International Women in Engineering Day?
Because of my experience, I’m passionate about supporting others in their own development journeys.
I’m proud to be a member of the Women at SGN Committee, where I lead the Development Sub-Group. Whether through learning opportunities, mentoring or sharing experiences, I believe that investing in people helps build confidence and unlock potential.
A lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is that development does not always follow a straight path. Everyone's journey is different, and it is important not to compare your progress to others. What matters is continuing to learn, challenge yourself and take opportunities when they arise. My mum always told me no education is wasted!
So maybe you don’t work in an engineering role right now. Maybe, like me, your career path hasn’t followed a traditional linear route.
That doesn’t mean the door is closed to you. We need skilled and talented engineers from all different backgrounds and it’s never too late to make steps towards your goals.
I hope my experience encourages you to invest in your own development and believe in what you can achieve. Every step you take towards your goals can make a lasting difference to your future. Believe in yourself, and others will too.
