Empowering Women in Geotechnical Engineering: Celebrating Innovation and Diversity

As we commemorate International Women in Engineering Day (#INWED), we turn our spotlight to the remarkable women shaping the geotechnical landscape. ?

Why Geotechnical Engineering Matters?

Geotechnical engineering is the bedrock (quite literally!) of our built environment. It encompasses everything from foundation design for buildings to slope stability analysis for highways. Yet, despite its critical role, the representation of women in this field remains disproportionately low.?

Hear from Martha Salamanca Lumley (Associate/Transport at Arup?) and Sue Thomson (Principal Engineering Geologist at Arup?) as they share their successes, challenges and wisdom with us.????

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Martha Salamanca Lumley: Associate/Transport at Arup?

Defining Moments: During the detailed design of a project that included construction of an anchored secant piled wall, we encountered an unforeseen challenge concerning groundwater conditions that had not been previously identified or included in the financial planning. Fortunately, I had the guidance of an exceptional Project Manager. Together, we proactively gathered data, discussed alternatives with Arup experts, and developed a number of potential solutions. When we approached the construction team with well-thought-out design adjustments, they appreciated our approach of presenting solutions alongside the problem. The positive reception from the team was affirming, and this experience has profoundly influenced my approach to delivering projects since.

?Overcoming Challenges: In my role as geotechnical Subject Matter Expert (SME) within the Peru Reconstruction Program, I faced some challenges that put my skills to the test such as remote work on a fast-paced environment and integration into several construction teams as technical advisor during the pandemic, and straight after a period of maternity leave.

Working remotely presented unique challenges, such as communication gaps and time zone differences. The fast-paced nature of the project demanded quick decision-making, availability outside normal UK working hours and adaptability. As a native Spanish speaker, I leveraged my language skills to bridge cultural gaps, used my technical knowledge to navigate complex conversations and build trust with the various teams. Over time, I felt how the contractor side began to recognize my contributions and gradually adjusted their meeting schedules so I could be a regular participant, with my input influencing key project decisions.

Advice for Aspiring Engineers: I began my engineering journey with a desire to travel the globe and transform it for the better of people and the environment. I can attest that engineering has indeed granted me these experiences and more. For those considering a career in engineering, I would say engineering is ever evolving and gives ample opportunities to create your own career path so don’t hold back. Always be curious, strive for excellence from day one and cultivate both your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills, as they are equally important. Stay up to date with technology, demonstrate resilience and ensure that enjoyment is a key component of your journey… and remember the world is your oyster!

Sue Thomson: Principal Engineering Geologist at Arup?

Defining Moments: Regularly I feel like my work in the Engineering Geology field, makes a change or raises awareness of the ground risks and influences designs or decisions. For me, it’s the small impacts: sharing knowledge and information and realizing it’s made someone do something they perhaps would not have considered or known about without my input. Recent work on the TransPennine Route Upgrade, advising on legacy coal mining risks and collaborating with design, construction and the owner, to define acceptable risk has been both challenging and rewarding. We have developed a targeted, risk-based approach to mitigation based on a sound understanding of the ground, and by understanding the amount of risk the project and client consider acceptable. This has led to both cost and carbon savings for the project.?

Overcoming Challenges: Working on site in the construction industry can be a challenge, especially as consultants and designers, when others on site have been doing their specific job for many years. I think this is improving significantly now, but therea are still improvements to be made. Years ago, I spent over a year supervising earthworks and structural elements, building two dams for the Skipton Flood Alleviation Scheme in North Yorkshire. This was a brilliant opportunity and experience. I learnt so much. Not least dealing with people – there were some characters, but it also provided a wealth of wider engineering experience outside of my Engineering Geology background. This really helped me support others and to consider our work much more holistically, as well as practically realizing the importance of a well written, detailed specification!?

Advice for Aspiring Engineers: Say yes to opportunities. If you want to explore new avenues, be vocal - ask. And remember doing something once or twice doesn’t make you an expert! Do get support, advice and review from others.?

To all the remarkable individuals who generously shared their stories with us, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your experiences, challenges, and triumphs inspire us all.?

Our next article will share the stories of powerful women in structural engineering. ?

?? If you have projects you’d like to showcase on our website and social platforms, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected].?