Aisling O’Connor started as an intern and now works as a project engineer. She encourages more young women to consider STEM roles. Aisling initially hesitated to pursue engineering as a woman, but seeing female engineers removed her doubts.
What sparked your interest in engineering?
I always enjoyed maths and physics, but quickly realised I preferred practical, experiment-based learning rather than pure theory, which led me to engineering. I had reservations about becoming a female engineer, but those disappeared during my internship at Ethos.
How did your internship help shape your career?
In school, engineering was just lectures and coursework. At Ethos, I saw how those principles influence buildings people use daily, which helped me understand the impact engineers can have. I was drawn to Ethos given its focus on helping to shape and design buildings. I quickly realised that the engineering principles I’d been learning could be applied to building services.
I joined Ethos after college and gained valuable experience alongside structured training. Over time, my responsibilities increased, and I progressed to Project Engineer.
Why are programmes like TY outreach and STEPS important?
These programmes give students real exposure to engineering. TY students can shadow teams and see what engineering roles are like, and STEPS helps us introduce younger children to engineering.
Many students don’t realise the opportunities engineering offers. These programmes help bridge that gap by giving them a chance to meet engineers, ask questions and see what a STEM career can look like.
"Seeing women in engineering helps turn STEM from an idea into a possibility."
What do you enjoy most about working in engineering?
My favourite part is seeing a project develop from design to reality. It builds your confidence because you can tangibly see the impact of your design decisions.
Why do visible role models matter for young women considering STEM careers?
When young women meet female engineers, they can picture themselves in those roles. Seeing women in engineering helps turn STEM from an idea into a possibility. Seeing female engineers helps young women recognise that engineering is a viable option. Representation builds confidence and encourages more people to consider STEM pathways.
Through school visits, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful representation can be. When young women meet female engineers, it helps them picture themselves in those roles and opens up career paths they may never have considered before.
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