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J. HOGAN On my way to pursue a degree in Architecture I ended up in the Faculty of Engineering at MUN, and found engineering so interesting that I completed a degree in civil engineering instead. I have never regretted that choice, since the field of civil engineering is so broad, versatile and global. This background has given me the opportunity to travel, have steady and interesting employment, and be self-sufficient. Civil engineering is generally about providing structures and services to make life more "civilized", like water and sewer services, highways, safe structures to live and work in, bridges, dams and waste disposal systems, all with an aim to minimize harmful environmental impacts. Providing these services involves other fields of engineering, such as mechanical and electrical, and various levels of expertise including engineers, engineering technologists and technicians, heavy equipment operators and laborers. I feel proud to be contributing to these positive improvements in people's lives. Being a woman in this field is still the exception. As the only or the first female engineer in a workplace I faced and succeeded in some interesting challenges and unusual situations. I have found that women often have to earn respect, rather than be given it automatically, but it can be earned and the effort makes it even more rewarding. My message to women reading this is that if you have a natural curiosity for how things work, and want a good versatile career, then engineering may be for you. Yes it is challenging, but anything can be achieved if you are willing to work for it. Dream a little and then take on the challenge!
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