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We’re marking The International Day of Women and Girls in Science; a day celebrated annually on 11th February - with this year being its 10th year. CPS shares in the awareness day’s critical aims of promoting full and equal access to and participation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.  

Despite significant progress, women remain underrepresented in these disciplines. Currently, only 29% of STEM workforces is women, with only 33% of researchers worldwide and in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence, the number drops to just one in five. Similarly, only 12% of engineers in the UK are women, and only 9% holding top career grade positions. 

In graduates, women account for only 28% of engineering graduates and less than 35% of all STEM graduates globally.  

These surprising statistics reflect the systemic barriers, biases, and cultural stereotypes that continue to discourage girls from pursuing careers in science and technology. 

As we celebrate and recognise this awareness day, some of the team of inspiring women at CPS have discussed their stories of impact in STEM.  

Nicola Steele, Head of Environmental and Sustainability

Nicola’s journey in STEM was shaped by her deep love for the environment. Despite initially being accepted to teach, she took a leap of faith just five weeks before university and changed her course to study landscape management. Though people questioned her decision, Nicola has never regretted it. “The environment is an ever-changing subject, and there’s always more science to learn,” she shares. During her time studying plant science and horticulture, Nicola found a path that felt like the perfect fit. Her passion remains committed as she reflects on a career where she finds joy in her work. Nicola said “I think it's taken a long while to get going but I do believe that we are now realising that stripping the countryside of biodiversity needs to be reversed and finally things are starting to move in the right direction.”

Amrita Maharaj, Linear Asset Lead

Amrita’s path to STEM was not a straight line. Originally interested in physiotherapy, she unexpectedly found herself drawn to geology after her first lecture. “I vividly remember listening to the lecturer talk about the Earth, the moon, and the fascinating world of geology, that I didn’t know existed”. This newfound excitement set her on a path that eventually led her to pursue Civil Engineering. Through her evolving journey, Amrita has learned that “once you find your passion, it’s a journey worth following.”

Elleanor's journey began with her love for science and geography in school, leading her to study Environmental Sciences at university. Her studies equipped her with the knowledge to become an Environmental Steward for the highways in Kent, where she worked on environmental impact assessments, tree surveys, and carbon emissions. Elleanor knew it was the right path for her when “I got to start influencing the culture and really enjoying the role, which is why eight years later I am still in a highway environmental role.”

Salona Naidoo, Geotechnical Asset Manager

Salona discusses her experience of challenges that face women in STEM careers, especially the need to prove herself more than her male colleagues. “I had to constantly prove my worth and earn my seat at the table” she shares. However, Salona viewed these challenges as opportunities to showcase her capabilities and bring her best to every task. She credits her strong male and female mentors for supporting her along the way. One of her proudest moments was leading a large international project as the only woman among 15 men. Salona’s advice to other girls considering a career in STEM is “This career path allows one to be constantly challenged which provides a very creative platform and shaping individuals that are agile and diverse in thought. If you’re interested in making an impact to society, then this is the career for you.”

Rebecca Gysin, Environmental and Sustainability Manager

A key highlight of Rebecca’s current role has been her involvement in delivering Net Zero training to over 200 delegates. For her, “contributing to the preservation of the environment is what excites me most about my work at CPS”. She is particularly passionate about the growing focus on carbon reduction and the progress being made toward a more sustainable future. Through her role, Rebecca is witnessing firsthand how shifting attitudes are helping to make meaningful changes.

Arsha Sachi, Structures Asset Engineer

Arsha is driven by the desire to maintain and enhance structural assets, ensuring they are safe and reliable for the future. A recent project focused on integrating passive design strategies into residential buildings to minimise energy consumption and support the UK’s net-zero carbon goals by 2050. Arsha shares “I find great satisfaction in knowing that my work contributes to safer infrastructure and a more sustainable world. Every day brings unique challenges.”

Abbey Featherstone, Technical Authority Manager

Although Abbey started her career as a Civil Engineer, she said “I love that I get involved with all sorts of different engineering and other aspects of managing the M25”. A project Abbey has enjoyed being part of is the M25 J10 improvement scheme in Surrey; a project designed to reduce traffic congestion by building new bridges and widening the A3. One of the bridges on this project features sensors to measure forces during and after construction, which could change future design standards. Abbey said “I find great joy that I can influence design to be safer and more efficient. It is exciting to know that CPS are helping millions of people who use the M25 every year use the road safely, which many people never realise how much goes on behind the scenes to make that happen.”

CPS is proud to actively challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, and promote inclusivity across the business. We are dedicated to fostering equality and breaking down biases within the industry. Through our dedicated ED&I team, we continuously raise awareness, encourage meaningful conversations, and host events to create platforms for discussion at every opportunity.

We also regularly organise groups and events to support women throughout our business, and we extend this commitment to the wider community. This includes delivering talks and discussions in schools to inspire the next generation, mentoring, supporting development and celebrating our team at awards – such as last year’s Women in Construction and Engineering Awards shortlisting and wins, as well as highlighting impactful awareness days including today’s.