Celebrating Female Excellence in Engineering: Inspiring interview and advises shared by Maureen Omoga on International Women in Engineering Day!

1.??????What’s the path that led you to pursue a career in engineering?

On 7th August 1998 that the U.S Embassy in Nairobi was bombed. I was in grade 3 and watching the remains of the buildings after the bomb blast on the news I was left wondering how such a strong structure can be brought down with a just a “bullet” so I thought and what could they have done better to make it “bulletproof” to save the 213 lives that were lost yet I was told a house is the safest place. In my quest to find out the structural dynamics of the building and how it came about, I developed an interest in civil and structural engineering and ultimately, I decided to pursue a career in that line.

2.??????What the key milestones and achievements that have shaped your professional journey?

????????I.???????????Completing my undergraduate studies in Civil Engineering provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills and continual professional trainings in Safety, Health Environment and Quality.

??????II.???????????Obtaining my license to practice as a Graduate Civil Engineer with the Engineers Board Of Kenya

????III.???????????Having the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in various Civil Engineering works and its related fields.

3.??????What challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcame them?

????????????????????????????????I.???????????Gender biasness: Engineering is a male-dominated field and anytime I would seek for internships or would attend interviews, the discussion would be more of questioning your capability as a woman. I overcome this by speaking out on my accomplishments, skills and aspirations and creating awareness on the capabilities of Women in Engineering and encouraging inclusivity to create an environment that is welcoming to women.

??????????????????????????????II.???????????Work-life Balance: Balancing family responsibilities like motherhood and a demanding career can be challenging due to expectations from the society and sometimes lack of a good support system. Generally, Women in Technology have come up with support networks that provide mentors who give a career guidance and provide a support system. Also having a supportive family has greatly contributed with overcoming the challenge.

As a matter of fact, overcoming these challenges requires a collective effort from both individuals and organizations to create an inclusive and equitable environment for WIE.

4.??????What can you advise for aspiring women engineers who may be facing similar obstacles?

Never doubt your capabilities, build a strong foundation then pursue your passion and be confident and assertive. Build a supportive network around you by connecting with other women in engineering, joining professional bodies that can fight for your rights and having mentors who can guide you through your career. Do not be afraid to voice your opinion, embrace the challenges and always be ready to learn.

5.??????What’s the Initiatives or projects you have been involved in that promote gender equality and diversity in engineering?

Participated in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Workshop organized by Women In STEM – Dar-es-Salaam.

Member of Lady Engineers Kenya a group that provides mentorships to High school girls and young women pursuing careers in engineering.

As a woman in Engineering, I’m never afraid to voice my opinion because I am a woman, the society will adjust, I am the representative of diversity and inclusion!

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