International Women in Engineering Day
Happy International Women in Engineering Day! This is celebrated each year on June 23rd! Today (really everyday) we here at C&S Companies celebrate the achievements of women in engineering and highlight the importance of diversity in this field. Engineering is a profession that keeps on building, and it fills roles across many sectors. From designing buildings, bridges, and roads to developing new technologies and solving complex problems, engineers play a crucial role in shaping our world. However, despite significant progress in recent years, women are still underrepresented in this field. This day reminds us to keep focus on encouraging more women to pursue careers in engineering. C&S is proud to have created a more inclusive workplace for all. Let’s celebrate the amazing work of women engineers today and every day!
We are thrilled to highlight three incredible leaders who inspire future generations of women in engineering.
Aileen Maguire Meyer, the President of C&S Engineers, Inc., is a true inspiration for women aspiring to enter this, currently, male-dominated industry. As a woman in engineering, Aileen has proven that gender does not define one’s capabilities or potential for success.
In her role as President, Aileen is responsible for providing strategic leadership and working with senior management to establish and execute long-range goals and policies. She leads corporate initiatives to optimize operational efficiency, oversees the company’s performance, and sets an example for future generations of women in engineering. Aileen also provides leadership on select projects to deliver a range of architecture, engineering and planning services.
What drew you to a career in engineering?
My father influenced my decision to explore a career in engineering. At home he was an innovator and I enjoyed helping him with his projects. In his work as an electrician and machinist, my father would collaborate with engineers and he thought it would be an interesting career to pursue. During college, I realized I could combine my interest in transportation with a career in traffic engineering.
What has been the most surprising thing you have learned in your engineering career?
Technical knowledge and expertise are important but are not the only skills needed to succeed. Communication skills are crucial to understand the issues and needs of clients and stakeholders, effectively convey complex projects to the general public, and to collaborate with a multi-disciplined team. Creativity and critical thinking are important in problem solving – you need to think about the big picture and the detailed aspects of the project, explore alternative approaches, and evaluate multiple factors to identify and implement innovative solutions.
What advice would you like to share with young women thinking of pursuing a career in engineering?
Don’t underestimate yourself – Remember there is value in your unique perspective and experience. Have confidence in yourself, be persistent, accept challenges, and take advantage of opportunities to continue to develop in your career.
Be a lifelong learner – Build a diverse network of colleagues who can serve as a support system and provide mentoring advice throughout your career.
Chart your own path – Be willing to take chances, follow your interests, advocate for yourself and don’t be afraid to pivot in your career to maintain work-life balance or move between technical and leadership roles.
Francesca Neiley is a managing electrical engineer at C&S Engineers, Inc. with 15 years of experience. She received her B.S. in mechanical engineering from Clarkson University in 2008. She leads multi-disciplined design teams for projects in the industrial, aviation, municipal, private and public markets. She has her professional engineering license in New York, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Georgia. In her free time, she is an active member of the Junior League of Syracuse.
What drew you to a career in engineering?
Science and engineering has always piqued my interests. My dad was a champion for questioning why and how; I learned from him.
What has been the most surprising thing you have learned in your engineering career?
We think engineering is just problem solving; it is problem solving for people. People are the centers of our careers.
Any advice you would like to share with young women thinking of pursuing a career in engineering?
There will be obstacles. These obstacles will make you a better engineer. Do not doubt your ability to succeed!
Andrea Cella is a structural engineer in C&S Companies southeast facilities group. She has 23 years of experience providing structural analysis and design for a variety of building types including aviation, healthcare, educational (higher and K‐12), municipal, museum, commercial, theater, office, and multi‐family residential. Andrea’s title is “Principal Engineer” and she has been with C&S since 2014. She has a double undergraduate degree in Architectural Engineering and Environmental Design from the University of Colorado.
What drew you to a career in engineering?
After starting out in an architectural course program, I was drawn to the structures classes and the “right/wrong” aspect of engineering.
What has been the most surprising thing you have learned in your engineering career?
After 23 years in structural design, I still continue to learn new things and new design methods which makes my job exciting and engaging.
Any advice you would like to share with young women thinking of pursuing a career in engineering?
Like most things in life, balance is important. Embrace your femininity as it creates balance among a design team and your female point of view adds value to the project.