Championing diversity in the workplace

GHD’s people in the UK are championing diversity in the workplace by encouraging women into to STEM careers.

Students Emma Winder and Alena Iqbal (pictured with Kathleen Cunningham, Operations Director – Manchester), joined GHD’s process engineering team as part of a work experience initiative.

Alena, who is studying Chemical and process Engineering and the University of Leeds sited GHD’s friendly and helpful staff as one of the highlights of her experience. Alena comments, “My experience at GHD provided a valuable opportunity to work on real design projects, highlighting the importance of attention to detail. It was also great to be able to attend a Process team meeting and understand how the wider company operates.”

A recent school leaver, Emma hopes to continue her studies at Nottingham University where she plans to start working towards degree in Civil Engineering later this year. During her time at GHD Emma worked on a large water project. Emma comments, “It has been interesting to gain a greater understanding of the complexities involved in projects of this scale, as well as the many different elements that need to be taken into consideration.”

Engaging with local schools, colleges and universities, and providing positive work experience opportunities for all students remains a vital part of GHD’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Kathleen says “It has been a pleasure to welcome Alena and Emma to our team and to advocate engineering as a career for everyone. These work experience placements are a vital part of our ongoing work to encourage more women into STEM careers.”