Celebrating International Women in Engineering Day 2024

To mark International Women in Engineering Day 2024, we are delighted to highlight a remarkable member of our team, Michelle Lane. Michelle serves as a NRSWA Manager at Dunamis, and oversees critical street works and ensuring compliance with legal standards for the whole of Fulcrum Group.

Since joining us in 2022, Michelle has leveraged her extensive background in traffic management and telecommunications to drive and support the delivery of our projects to successful outcomes for our customers.

Michelle’s journey in engineering is a testament to her resilience and passion. Her commitment to continual learning and professional growth is fantastic, reflecting the core values of dedication and excellence in engineering at Dunamis and the wider Fulcrum Group.

Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities at Dunamis?

I joined Dunamis in 2022 as a NRSWA Coordinator and was quickly promoted to NRSWA Manager, with my role expanded to oversee street works for the entire Fulcrum Group, as well as Dunamis. My responsibilities include ensuring our operations on public highways are compliant with legal and council regulations. This involves managing safety practices for all the electric, gas and water infrastructure we install. I’m often out in the field, assessing sites and liaising with Local Authorities, our engineers and our project managers, to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely.

What is the most important or rewarding part of your role?

For me, the most rewarding part is navigating the challenges of obtaining the necessary permissions for our projects. It can be a lengthy process with many hurdles, but seeing a project come to fruition and witnessing the satisfaction of the team and our customers when we successfully deliver it, is incredibly fulfilling. It’s great to see the positive impact of our work on the community and the country, and to know that we’ve met all legal and safety standards while we power our customers developments.

What kind of support and opportunities have you received to help you grow professionally and advance in your career?

I’ve had the chance to expand my existing skills and various qualifications since joining the business. Dunamis and Fulcrum Group encourages continual learning and development, which has been important to my growth. I’ve recently completed training several EUSR certifications in electric, gas and water and I’ve undertaken training in Management and Leadership, which has helped me manage and lead effectively in my role.

What does Women in Engineering Day mean to you, and how do you see it impacting the industry?

Women in Engineering Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in our field and to inspire more women to consider careers in engineering and construction. I believe that showcasing the successes of women in these roles helps to break down barriers and stereotypes, encouraging more women to pursue and thrive in engineering careers.

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

My advice is to pursue the role you’re passionate about without any doubt. Training and skill development are crucial, so it’s very important to focus on gaining the necessary qualifications and experience. Don’t let the fact that you’re a woman deter you from achieving your goals; we’re all capable of performing the same roles. Believe in your abilities, seek out opportunities for growth, and remember that the engineering field is open and supportive for everyone.