What I learned from moving to the UK to be a civil engineer

Facing the Greek recession upon graduating from university in 2011 was a huge challenge.

It was a difficult time for everyone, with career progression coming to a standstill.

Many of my friends and colleagues lost their jobs, leaving everyone feeling uncertain about the future.

However, the struggles during that period ultimately pushed me to consider moving abroad, which turned out to be the best decision I could’ve made.

I owe it to my family

I studied civil engineering for five years at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and then I did my master’s degree at Imperial College London.

I come from a low-income background but had a number of opportunities that were open to me.

My parents made the courageous choice to send me abroad at a young age to secure a better future for me.

Thanks to their sacrifice, I am where I am today, and I hope to make their decision truly worthwhile.

I’ve been with Arup since the start of my career and have been fortunate to gain diverse experiences across various regions and project types, all within the same company.

What do engineers actually do?

Engineering is one of those fields where, despite studying math, physics, and other subjects, it can be hard to grasp what engineers actually do.

I recall asking my high school teacher to explain what engineering is, and they got back to me with: "everything".

It’s only in recent years that I’ve come to understand just how accurate that description really is!

Finding opportunities in the industry

If opportunities aren't readily available, work diligently to create and seize them.

Each of us has unique qualities that set us apart.

While this field is competitive, we should make the most of the opportunities we find in our new environments and turn our challenges into valuable experiences.

Moving to the UK created opportunities for me

Working in the UK broadened my horizons.

It gave me exposure to a variety of projects and engineering practices that weren’t common in my home country.

For example:

• rail electrification schemes;
• wind turbine foundations;
• massive highway viaducts; and
• 69,000 tonnes of superstructure steelwork roof design for the Abu Dhabi International Airport.

It also provided me a deep understanding of different cultures, which can be enriching personally and professionally.

I improved my language skills which is a significant asset in the global job market.

Not to mention the attractive salary packages and benefits that came with the job.

There were challenges too

There were times though, when I genuinely felt out of place and struggled with unhappiness.

Establishing a social network and forming friendships in a new country required considerable time and effort.

Adapting to unfamiliar work environments and diverse management styles was also challenging.

I remember at one point I was given a new software that I was completely unfamiliar with.

I had to invest extra time in learning and understanding the different software, but also building codes, standards, and regulations.

And even if you are proficient in the language, regional accents and technical jargon can pose challenges.

Hard work and resilience

Achieving a beautiful, rewarding life requires hard work, resilience, confidence, patience, and a constructive attitude.

With these qualities, you can build a fantastic future, anywhere in the world

Career success

Becoming a Chartered Engineer was a key milestone in my career.

It’s not only boosted my career prospects and deepened my knowledge, but also expanded and enriched my professional network.

I was recognised globally for my skills, such as problem solving, effective communication, work ethic and determination.

Then, being named one of the Top 50 Women in Engineering by the Women in Engineering Society (WES) in 2024 was an incredible honour.

But nothing compares to hearing my young daughter proudly share "mommy's engineering work" with her teacher and friends at school.

What makes me an engineer?

Through my career, I’ve worked on many projects that improve quality of life.

For example, railway stations that improve passenger experience through more visibility and natural wayfinding.

I help ensure that all users, whether they use stairs or lifts, enjoy a high-quality, equal, and comfortable experience.

I design bridges that improve access to transportation, and barriers that help reduce suicide attempts.

But at the end of the day, I’m an engineer not because I have a grade or certificate that says so.

I'm an engineer because I’m passionate about people and the environment, and about bringing those together in a sustainable way.