International Women in Engineering Day – Sisi Liu

International Women in Engineering Day is an international awareness campaign to raise the profile of women in engineering and celebrate the outstanding achievements of women engineers throughout the world. Sisi Liu, Senior Project Engineer at IG Masonry Support provides an insight into the day to day activities of an engineer and encourages young women to follow a career in engineering because “nothing is better than doing what you are passionate about as a job.”

What made you want to develop a career in engineering?

I have always been fascinated about buildings and structures since I was young. Growing up as a kid, my favourite subjects in school were Mathematics and Physics. I was also influenced by my dad as he is an engineer, designing big infrastructure projects like power stations etc. When I was applying for university there wasn’t any hesitation when I chose Civil Engineering. I have always worked in the construction industry and was very fortunate to have the opportunity to join Keystone Group last year. I have learnt so much and developed as a young engineer since I’ve been with IG Masonry Support. It has provided a lot of opportunities to work on projects and interact with architects, contractors and structural engineers which has given me great exposure to the construction industry which I certainly enjoy. I am so happy with my progress and the support I have received from IG Masonry Support and I am looking forward to see what my next challenge is.

Describe your normal working day?

My normal working day can be so different from day to day. I have days in the office working on calculations, project programmes, designs, cost controls, drawings, etc. which requires a lot of concentration and time spent at my desk. I get great satisfaction when I tick all these tasks off my to-do list at the end of the day. Every now and then I also get the chance to get out of the office to attend site design meetings and visit sites to find solutions to any issues or challenges the clients have onsite. I appreciate every opportunity to go onsite and talk to clients as it makes my job very interesting as well as giving me great experience and helping me develop as an engineer.

What is your favourite thing about your job?

To me my job is so interesting because every project is different and it is like opening a box of chocolates, you get excited to see what is next and I particularly enjoy challenges which require more brain power to find the solutions.

What has been your career highlight to date?

I am still at a very early stage of my career in engineering and I guess all the projects I have been involved in are highlights as it is such a good feeling when you see the buildings been constructed with your input.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in engineering?

My advice to women considering a career in engineering is just don’t even think about the gender, if engineering is your thing go for it! I truly believe that no matter if you are a women or a man, nothing is better than doing what you are passionate about as a job.