In a profession where women remain underrepresented and often face barriers to progression, the experiences of female engineers at Whitfield Consulting Services (WCS) demonstrate how a supportive and inclusive environment can make a difference.
Whether just starting out or seeking the next challenge, we offer opportunities to build a career where your voice is valued, your work makes an impact, and your future is supported.
Continuing our series highlighting women making their mark in engineering, we showcase the experiences of Aya Ahmed, Kyi Hnin Thwe, and Mahaswetha Ramamoorthy: three talented engineers at WCS.
Building sustainable futures: Mahaswetha Ramamoorthy, Civil/Structural Engineer
For Mahaswetha Ramamoorthy, her fascination with engineering began early. “There was a large dam near my hometown, and during my childhood I often asked my father to take me there on weekends,” she recalls. “Watching the water flow over the spillways always amazed me – it sparked a curiosity about how such incredible structures are built. That fascination ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in civil engineering.”
Mahaswetha recently moved to the UK from India, a transition she describes as both exciting and challenging. “WCS has provided me with the opportunity to restart and grow my career here in the UK,” she explains. “The supportive and collaborative culture has played a key role in helping me develop both personally and professionally.”
One project stands out as a source of pride. “I’m proud to be part of my first project at WCS, which focuses on expanding wind energy generation. The project aims to increase renewable power production and contribute to reducing carbon emissions. It’s rewarding to know that our work directly supports cleaner, more sustainable energy for the future.”
Mahaswetha is passionate about encouraging more women into engineering. “Follow what truly inspires you and never let anything dim your inner spark,” she says. “Perseverance and passion are key – progress may take time, but every small step you take contributes to something meaningful. Diversity in engineering grows when we share our unique perspectives, support one another, and celebrate our collective successes.”
Making an immediate impact: Aya Ahmed, Graduate Civil Engineer
Aya Ahmed joined WCS in September 2025, bringing a strong academic and teaching background. During her time as a Lecturer at the University of Khartoum, Sudan, Aya completed a PhD in Civil Engineering at Imperial College London.
“From the interview process, I could see the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at WCS,” she says. She was also impressed by the structured HR and training programmes explained to her during recruitment, which gave her confidence that her career development would be supported.
WCS’s inclusive environment has helped Aya feel empowered from the start. “Seeing female leaders like Dr Natalja Petkune in an engineering management role makes it clear that progression is achievable,” she explains.
Although relatively new to the company, Aya has already felt welcomed and supported by colleagues of all genders. “The collaborative environment fosters learning and builds confidence,” she says.
Looking to the future, Aya believes diversity and inclusion can be strengthened by actively supporting female progression into senior positions and promoting a culture that recognises and rewards talent and contribution regardless of gender.
From inspiration to achievement: Kyi Hnin Thwe, Senior Structural Engineer
For Kyi Hnin Thwe, engineering runs in the family. “Having a civil engineer parent was a great inspiration for my career,” she reflects. Since joining WCS, Kyi has seen her communication and project management skills develop significantly.
Within just over a year at WCS, she has contributed to major projects, including feasibility studies and detailed design for transformer concrete bunds, high voltage equipment foundations and GIS (gas-insulated switchgear) buildings. “Receiving positive feedback from clients has been incredibly motivating and has brought new projects to WCS,” she says.
Kyi encourages young women to pursue their passions and dream big. “Figure out what you enjoy, even if it’s hard to define at first. Then explore your strengths, which could shape your future career. Make sure to dream big; there is always a way to make your dreams come true,” she advises.
Leadership and influence
As well as supporting internal teams, WCS leads a range of programmes to inspire the next generation of engineers.
“One of the best parts of working at WCS is knowing that I can do more than just delivering design,” says Celine Mahfoud, Civil/Structural Design Engineer at WCS. “I am encouraged every day to give back to the community. I value the opportunity to present at schools and universities, where I can inspire the next generation of engineers and encourage young girls to consider a career in engineering.”
Alongside Celine, Dr Natalja Petkune, Director at WCS, leads initiatives including student placements, career fairs, guest lectures, mentorship schemes, and participation in national programmes such as the Women’s Engineering Society’s Lottie Tour. This work saw WCS shortlisted for the Excellence in Outreach accolade at the Inspiring Women in Construction & Engineering Awards 2025.
Learn more about how WCS develops engineering from early talent to leadership.
Consider us for your next career move
If you are passionate about civil engineering, a career at WCS could be for you. Whatever your level of experience, we can help you make your mark. Click here for our latest vacancies.
Read part one of our Celebrating women in engineering series for interviews with Kirsty Glover, Associate Director, Pyei Pyei Aung, Civil/Structural Design Engineer, and Asmin Ashraf, Graduate Civil Engineer.
