Written by Katy Isaac, Head of Engagement at Deetu & BWB Consulting
Exploring a Different Route Into the Engineering Industry
I’m not an engineer! But the first thing to learn about engineering is that you don’t just have to be an engineer. There are so many roles that exist in this industry, and we need to celebrate all those that work in it in any capacity and contribute to improving the world we live in.
I started by studying Geography – a subject I am hugely passionate about because it brings together a variety of widely applicable skills. My interest was in behaviour change: why do people behave in certain ways, and how can we encourage people to improve those behaviours for the sake of the environment?
When working as a Sustainability Officer at a large NHS trust, I found my passion in explaining complex processes, issues, and solutions to people who didn’t necessarily have the technical knowledge. Helping them understand and feel engaged really inspired me.
Since then, I have worked in consultancy across many sectors:
- Energy
- Housebuilding
- Logistics
- Highways
- Rail
- Retail
- Sports
My role has always been about finding solutions by listening and engaging people in the process.
Creating Truly Inclusive Places Through Engagement
Working in engagement means creating places for everyone by really listening and understanding who isn’t in the room – and more importantly, why they aren’t there.
I work with my clients to break down the barriers that prevent people from feeling heard, supported, or able to participate. That might mean changing how we communicate or adapting the tools we use to make involvement more accessible.
Creating inclusive places requires inclusive processes. People need to feel their voice matters and that they can shape outcomes. My experience has taught me to ask more and better questions, challenge assumptions, and bring different perspectives into conversations early and often.
My Proudest Achievement: Empowering Others
Some of the moments I’m most proud of have been about people. Supporting, learning from, or mentoring others to find their confidence has always been the most rewarding part of my career.
Whether through schools outreach, events, or simply being there for my team, as a woman in a male-dominated space, I’m proud of the small part I can play in changing perceptions of what engineering looks like.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Woman in the Industry
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is dealing with imposter syndrome. In environments where I’ve been the only woman, or one of few, it can feel like you have to work harder to be taken seriously.
It’s taken time, but one of the best lessons I’ve learned is how important it is to take up space, use your voice, even when it feels uncomfortable, and trust in your abilities.
Finding the confidence to contribute, influence, challenge, and shape what happens next is a great feeling. Have conviction in your point of view!
The Importance of Asking Questions
My best piece of advice is to ask the question – there’s no such thing a silly one!
Asking questions (and listening to the answers) is one of our most underrated tools. It not only helps you learn more about the topic but also helps you learn in the way that works best for you.
So, ask about the job, the industry, the project, the details, and the outcome—and I promise people will want to explain it!