Celebrate International Women in Engineering Day with CrossBoundary Group 

On June 23rd, we join the global celebration of International Women in Engineering Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the incredible contributions of women in engineering and inspiring the next generation of female engineers.  

At CrossBoundary Group, our team is a unique blend of individuals united by a shared passion for making a difference in some of the world’s most challenging yet exciting markets. We are privileged to work with some of the brightest and most dedicated women whose stories, experiences, and advice offer a glimpse into the diverse paths and opportunities that engineering can provide.  

Our work spans across various sectors, including renewable energy, infrastructure, and investment advisory, all with the goal of driving sustainable development and positive impact. As we commemorate International Women in Engineering Day, we are proud to highlight the perspectives and contributions of our women engineers who embody these qualities and inspire us daily. 

Roukaya El Houda: Driven by Curiosity

Roukaya El Houda’s journey in engineering has been guided by relentless curiosity. As a Principal at CrossBoundary Advisory, her engineering background serves as an intellectual foundation enabling her to explore diverse geographies and sectors. 

What is the most unexpected skill or lesson that you’ve learned during your engineering studies and/or career? 

I used to joke with friends that in social group settings, people often expect you to fix things. Surprisingly, it helps you experiment with problems and grows your confidence to come up with solutions. 

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

It is a really fun field and opens many doors professionally. Don’t miss out if you are intrigued by engineering! 

Anne Gakingo: Renewable Energy Champion

Anne Gakingo’s career in engineering is driven by a passion for renewable energy. Her analytical and structured approach, technical proficiency, and adaptability come in handy as a Senior Project Engineer at CrossBoundary Energy. 

How has your engineering background influenced your career path 

My way of thinking evolved into a more analytical and structured framework during my training. This paired with my technical proficiency, innate curiosity, and adaptability to emerging global trends sparked my interest in renewable energy. 

Importance of having more women entering the engineering field? 

At 50% of the world’s population, gender inclusion is pivotal in accelerating a just energy transition. We stand to gain greater socio-economic benefits when the voices and thoughts of women are amplified within the field. 

What advice would you give to young women in the field? 

I would say to exist and operate at the intersection of your society’s needs, your passions and skill set. Charity always begins at home. 

Tombo Banda: Journey of a Problem Solver

Tombo Banda’s career is a testament to the versatility and impact of an engineering background. Starting as a mechanical engineer, Tombo spent seven years honing her skills, eventually achieving chartership with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers UK. But her curiosity and drive didn’t stop there. She pursued a Master of Philosophy in Engineering for Sustainable Development, broadening her expertise to encompass energy, sustainability, and infrastructure across Africa. 

“My journey took me from engineering to McKinsey and now to CrossBoundary,” she reflects. “Engineering is a fantastic career for an analytical and curious mind. It teaches you to be an amazing problem solver in any field.” 

What is the most unexpected skill or lesson that you’ve learned during your engineering studies and/or career? 

Nobody knows what they are doing. Don’t have impostor syndrome. Even Socrates himself said, “I know I know nothing.” 

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

Engineering is a fantastic career for an analytical and curious mind – it is also very versatile. If you want to learn how to be an amazing problem solver in any field – consider engineering. 

Don’t think engineering puts you in a box – you can be on a hard hat on site, on a factory floor, or behind a desk; you can shape the career you love, based on your interests. 

What initiatives or resources do you recommend for women seeking support and community in the engineering field? 

Join the Women in Power Association, you can reach out to me on LinkedIn to join!

How do you cultivate resilience and maintain confidence in the face of setbacks or failures in your engineering work? 

Don’t not do it alone – get mentors to guide you, because you will inevitably mess up! 

Why is it important to have more women entering engineering fields? 

Engineering is about problem solving, and solving the world’s problems requires the experiences of both men and women. Did you know that seatbelts are designed with male physiology in mind? And that all car-crash dummies were male until 2011? I recommend reading Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez to learn more about how the gender gap in engineering persists. More women in engineering means more inclusive and effective solutions for everyone. 

Oseiwe Ehiremhen: Bridging Engineering and Business

For Oseiwe Ehiremhen, engineering has been the foundation upon which she has built a career focused on sustainable energy solutions. As a Project Development Engineer at CrossBoundary Energy, she applies her technical expertise to develop solar-hybrid solutions for telecommunications infrastructure. 

How has your engineering background influenced your career path? 

My engineering background has profoundly shaped my career path by providing me with a strong foundation in problem-solving, critical thinking, and technical expertise. My engineering education has equipped me to analyze complex systems, design innovative solutions, and optimize performance, which are crucial for delivering cost-effective and sustainable energy projects.  

Moreover, the technical knowledge I gained through my studies has allowed me to bridge the gap between engineering and business development, ensuring that our solutions are both technically sound and commercially viable. 

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

Embrace your passion for problem-solving and innovation. Don’t let stereotypes or doubts deter you. Seek out mentors, join professional networks, and continuously learn and adapt. Remember, your unique perspective is valuable, and your contributions can pave the way for future generations of women in engineering. Stay confident, be resilient, and never underestimate the power of perseverance and hard work. 

How do you cultivate resilience and maintain confidence in the face of setbacks or failures in your engineering work? 

I view setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow rather than failures. When faced with challenges, I analyze what went wrong, identify areas for improvement, and apply these lessons to future projects.  

Staying connected with a supportive network of colleagues and mentors also helps to maintain motivation and perspective.  

Additionally, setting small, achievable goals and celebrating progress keeps me focused and confident. By maintaining a positive attitude and being open to feedback, I can navigate challenges and continue to advance in my engineering career. 

Why is it important to have more women entering engineering fields? 

Increasing female representation in engineering not only benefits the industry but also contributes to a more equitable world, and innovative diversity drives innovation.  

Second, gender diversity promotes equality and inclusivity, challenging stereotypes and opening doors for future generations. It ensures that the solutions we develop address the needs and concerns of a diverse population. 

A Collective Celebration  

As we commemorate International Women in Engineering Day, we celebrate the journeys of Tombo, Oseiwe, Roukaya, Anne, and countless other women who have made significant contributions to engineering. Their stories remind us of the importance of including diverse perspectives as we seek to solve the world’s most pressing challenges.