Nafisah Aslam-Zainudeen: Inspiring the Next Generation of Female Engineers

In a world where engineering remains predominantly male-dominated, the journey of Nafisah Aslam-Zainudeen, Head of Engineering and Assurance at Greater Anglia, Britain, stands as a testament to breaking barriers and paving the way for aspiring female engineers. With a career spanning 17 years in the rail industry, Nafisah has witnessed both the challenges and marked improvements in gender diversity within the field. Now, she advocates for greater representation and mentorship to encourage young women to pursue careers in engineering. In a recent interview, Nafisah shares her insights on the importance of female role models, the value of diversity in innovation, and the collaborative efforts needed to create an inclusive environment in the engineering sector.

Could you share a bit about your journey from an engineering undergraduate to your current role as Head of Engineering and Assurance at Greater Anglia?

It's my pleasure. My journey in engineering has been quite fascinating, filled with challenges and triumphs. Starting as an engineering undergraduate, I navigated through various roles in the rail industry, eventually finding myself in the position I hold today at Greater Anglia. Along the way, I encountered gender disparities and misconceptions about women in engineering, but I remained steadfast in my passion for the field and worked hard to overcome these obstacles.

You mentioned the importance of female representation in engineering. How do you believe prominent women in the industry can inspire the next generation of female engineers?

Prominent women in engineering play a crucial role as visible role models for aspiring female engineers. By sharing our experiences and accomplishments, we can dispel stereotypes and showcase the diverse opportunities available in the field. Personally, I see it as my duty to inspire young women by being a visible presence and advocate for STEM education and careers.

What do you consider to be the main challenges facing women in engineering today, and how can these challenges be addressed?

Nafisah: One of the main challenges women face in engineering is the perception that it's a male-dominated field. This misconception can deter young women from pursuing STEM subjects and entering engineering careers. To address this, we need to foster a supportive environment that encourages diversity and inclusivity. Mentorship programs, awareness campaigns, and initiatives to challenge gender biases can all contribute to creating a more welcoming space for women in engineering.

How do you see the role of men in supporting gender diversity and inclusivity in the engineering sector?

Men have a crucial role to play in supporting gender diversity and inclusivity in engineering. By actively advocating for and championing women in the field, men can help break down barriers and create a more inclusive environment. Collaborative efforts between men and women are essential in driving meaningful change and ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities to succeed in engineering.

Thank you, Nafisah, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. Your dedication to promoting gender diversity and empowering the next generation of female engineers is truly inspiring.

It's been my pleasure. I'm committed to continuing my efforts to support and mentor aspiring female engineers, and I hope to see more women thriving in the engineering sector in the years to come.