Celebrating International Women in Engineering Day 2025
“As engineers, we are changing the world.” — Deborah Berebichez, physicist and STEM advocate
Today, on #INWED2025, we join a global celebration of the incredible contributions women make to engineering every day. At WISE, our mission is to ensure STEM is inclusive and equitable, empowering more women to thrive and lead in these fields.
This year, we’re shining a spotlight on three remarkable engineers from our network who were recognised as finalists for the Outstanding Woman in Engineering Award at our 2025 WISE Awards: Sarah Badesha, Kirsty McDermott, and Isobel Houghton.
To mark the occasion, we caught up with them to hear what inspired their journeys into engineering, what they love most about their work, and what advice they’d give to others who may be considering a career in this exciting and ever-evolving field.
Kirsty McDermott, Senior Welding Engineer, National Gas
Why did you want to become an engineer?
I didn’t know I wanted to be an engineer! I’d never heard of engineering until I did a career aptitude test, which suggested my personality and traits would make a good engineer. Since starting my apprenticeship, I’ve loved every aspect of it.
What’s your favourite thing about being an engineer?
I enjoy the problem-solving aspect of being an engineer. Being able to fix the issues when things don’t go quite right, or finding a solution that involves doing something that’s never been done before is what I love getting involved with.
What advice would you give to other women and girls to encourage them to pursue a career in engineering?
Do it! Especially if you feel like ‘I could never do that’, if you feel maths isn’t your strong point, or worry you don’t have the skillset – yes you do! There are so many transferable skills that could make you a fantastic engineer – you never know if you don’t try, and those different skills that you can bring to engineering is what will make you great – be authentically you whatever you choose to do.
Sarah Badesha, Head of Engineering, Chivas Brothers – Kilmalid Manufacturing site (Pernod Ricard)
Why did you want to become an engineer?
I loved maths, physics and chemistry at school, but I wanted to study a subject which would give me strong career prospects. My Chemistry teacher advised me to study Chemical Engineering at University as he regretted not studying that subject.
I skipped my final school year to head to Heriot Watt University to study Chemical Engineering. My father was an engineer, always buying latest gadgets and tinkering with various engines so that was an early influence.
What’s your favourite thing about being an engineer?
I really love the variety of areas you can get involved in as an engineer – from academic to consultancy specialism to manufacturing, the sector I work in.
I get a huge amount of satisfaction from solving problems and improving our business. I also love seeing physical projects grow from an idea to a design to a physical installation.
We think of engineering as only technical problems, but people are a huge aspect of what we do. Managing stakeholders can be just as challenging as the technical problems but also just as rewarding when you get it right.
What advice would you give to other girls/women to encourage them to pursue a career in engineering
Go for it! Within engineering, the roles are incredibly varied and rewarding. It is certain you will find a career path which aligns with your values and interests. An engineering background also opens many doors. Over 50% of the leadership team I work in have an engineering background and many of them are not currently leading areas which require it.
Pursuing a career in engineering is both challenging and rewarding. It is more diverse than it was before, and I have found it very welcoming as a female engineer. Great companies see the value in diversity in terms of performance and very much support throughout their organisation.
Isobel Houghton, Chief Engineer, AtkinsRéalis
Why did you want to become an engineer?
I studied physics at university and worked in research for some years, I made the move into engineering to apply my knowledge to the big challenges that affect everyone’s lives, like the generation of reliable low carbon electricity.
What’s your favourite thing about being an engineer?
As an engineer in the nuclear industry, I am really proud to be delivering tangible progress towards Net Zero and ensuring future energy security in the UK.
What advice would you give to other girls/women to encourage them to purse a career in engineering?
The breadth of opportunities in engineering means that there really is something for everyone, with tremendous opportunities to learn and develop – step out of your comfort zone and try something new!