Engineering Solutions for Resilience: Maria Mutagubya journey

‘Pathway to WFP’ is the LinkedIn career series by the World Food Programme investigating the professional backgrounds and life choices that led our staff to the world’s largest humanitarian agency. Subscribe to the newsletter to receive new episodes directly in your inbox!

Maria's journey from a diploma in Architecture to heading engineering projects that transform communities is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and passion for creating lasting impact. In this feature, Maria shares her professional path, from her early interest in design to her pursuit of advanced engineering and project management skills. She also provides valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of working in a humanitarian environment, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and the power of believing in oneself.

Over 200 WFP Engineers are stationed in more than 40 countries, playing a vital role in ensuring that life-saving assistance reaches those who need it most, while also paving the way for a better future for millions of people. From rehabilitating roads and building school kitchens, to implementing innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions, our Management Services Engineers ensure that WFP programmes and operations are efficient, effective, and impactful.?

Read more about Maria's inspiring story and learn how her work at WFP is making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable communities in Uganda.

Introduce yourself! What is your role at WFP? Where do you work and where are you from?

My name is Maria Mutagubya. I am a Civil Engineer and a certified Project Manager, with additional training in resolving disputes in engineering and construction projects. Currently, I serve as the Head of Engineering at the WFP Uganda Country Office, which is in my home country.

Tell us about your professional journey: how did you start your career? What is your academic and previous professional background.

My professional journey began with a diploma in Architecture, followed by a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. After a few years of practice, I pursued a post-graduate diploma in Project Management to enhance my skills.

My passion for Civil Engineering emerged from a desire to see my designs come to life. Initially, I enjoyed solving design problems and finding solutions. However, I soon realized that more complex designs required in-depth civil engineering knowledge, especially in structural design. This realization propelled me from designing to managing design implementation. My career progressed as I worked with both government and private sector organizations before joining WFP.

What brought you to WFP? Feel free to expand on how you joined the organization, and how your experience has been so far.

I have always admired the UN for its invaluable work in reaching out to the most vulnerable in society. Joining the UN family was a dream I hoped to achieve. When a vacancy at WFP opened, I applied and put my best foot forward.

Working at WFP has been one of the most fulfilling personal and professional experiences of my life. I've had the opportunity to work in various units and roles, which has provided extensive learning and growth opportunities.

What are some of your day-to-day responsibilities at work??

Over my 13 years at the Uganda Country Office, my roles and responsibilities have evolved significantly. On a day-to-day basis, I lead the Engineering team, overseeing project planning, construction procurement, and contract administration. This involves collaborating closely with other engineers at WFP and various stakeholders to address issues and monitor project risks. Additionally, I prepare and analyze reports to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget, contributing to the organization’s objectives.

We work on a variety of impactful projects. Recently, we completed a new guesthouse in Southwestern Uganda, bringing WFP staff closer to the communities in which we work and improving operational efficiency. Our infrastructure projects directly benefit communities, including renovating marketplaces, rehabilitating roads, enhancing food production facilities, and constructing shelters for WFP nutrition supplements. These projects promote resilience and sustainable development, facilitating economic trade, and making it easier for people to access healthy and nutritious foods and essential services.

What is the most rewarding part of working at WFP??

WFP has given me the opportunity to make a meaningful and positive impact through my daily work. It is incredibly fulfilling to know that, as an Engineer, I play a key role in creating tangible results that benefit communities in the shorter and longer term.

Additionally, being part of WFP's global engineering community of over 200 engineers has been a privilege. Collaborating with a diverse and talented group of professionals, all working towards the shared goal of changing and saving lives through sustainable and impactful infrastructure solutions, is deeply rewarding.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your job and how did you overcome them?

Working in a humanitarian environment is inherently challenging due to its unpredictable nature. External factors, such as natural disasters, can disrupt project timelines, requiring flexibility and adaptability to ensure smooth operations.

Being a woman in engineering also presents challenges in certain contexts. Recently, we celebrated International Women in Engineering Day to emphasize the importance of breaking down barriers and promoting gender equality.

There are many inspirational stories of successful women in engineering worldwide, and it's crucial to view every challenge as an opportunity to overcome self-doubt and champion diversity and inclusion in engineering.

Can you share 3 tips on how to pursue a similar career?

Of course! Here are my top 3 tips based on my experience:?

• Believe in yourself as you study and pursue your career.
• Be intentional about continuous professional development and growth, focusing on experiences, skills, and knowledge not typically taught in the classroom.
• Stay up to date with industry trends and evolving technology.

Do you have anything to add?

I have come to believe that all dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them!

Check out the WFP Engineering Service catalogue that showcases WFP's expertise in humanitarian and development infrastructure and the positive impact that these projects bring to communities around the world.

Let us know your thoughts and questions and share these career tips with the future humanitarians in your LinkedIn connections. Subscribe to our ‘Pathway to WFP’ newsletter to receive the next episode in your inbox!