Virtue Igbokwuwe

Graduate civil engineer, Taylor Woodrow

Expertise

Construction, Project Management

Location

United Kingdom

My highlights

Project managing a £3 million+ cycleway scheme in London

Winning STEM Ambassador of the Year 2024 at the Potential Unlocked Awards

Going on the Richard Hammond's Crazy Contraptions show with a team of female engineers

A day in my life

I know we all say each day is different, but on the construction site, it truly is.

My typical routine starts around 7:30am when the site supervisor delivers the daily briefing.

I add key dates and critical information for everyone’s awareness.

Managing the construction programme is crucial. I ensure it accurately reflects the onsite progress, giving a true indication of our project’s status and anticipated completion date.

Throughout the day, I’m out and about, visiting different areas of the site. I address ongoing issues, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

As a project manager, providing weekly updates keeps everyone informed and I normally have at least one interaction with the client and key stakeholders, providing them updates.

Finally, I handle commercial aspects like reviewing subcontractors’ compensation events, assessing quotes for work elements, and reviewing payment applications.

And to maintain work-life balance, I wrap up my day with a good old gym session.

As a Black woman in engineering, I just want to say that there’s a space for us here.

Which individual project or person inspired you to become a civil engineer?

My dad is an incredible chemical engineer, and he’s always been my inspiration.

I never thought I couldn’t be an engineer because he always emphasised that it’s accessible to anyone who desires it.

Eventually, I realised that civil engineering was my true passion.

We asked Virtue…

I would recommend a career in civil engineering because…

The work is dynamic, engaging, and fulfilling.

I appreciate it because each project presents unique challenges – even if the design is the same, the location can make a significant difference.

I value the freedom to work outdoors onsite and indoors on design aspects.

Most importantly, the impact we have on people’s lives is incredibly rewarding.

Whether it’s building a bridge to connect neighbouring villages or maintaining coastal defences to prevent flooding, our work matters!

Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also…

A travel enthusiast, lover of all things fitness and a young women navigating life post university.

What’s the biggest/most complex thing you’ve made out of Lego? How long did it take you?

I’ve not made anything out of Lego as such, but I participated on the Richard Hammond Crazy Contraption show.

I had to make a big device to turn on a kettle without human intervention (i.e you cannot use your hand or touch/move things).

It took five days. I was in a group with two other female civil engineers, and it was so tricky but rewarding.

What about being a civil engineer gets you out of bed each morning?

The challenge…

I think I do like a good challenge and being a civil engineer, you’ll always come across some kind of problem that needs solving.

I like it because we’re capable of solving it. We have a team of engineers working on a project, with the goal to get it done as safely as possible.

What’s one great thing that you love about civil engineering that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?

As a contractor, you interact with a diverse group of people on a daily basis.

Onsite, collaboration involves various team members working together to ensure timely and budget-friendly project delivery.

Also, engaging with key stakeholders and clients enhances your soft skills, including verbal and written communication, within the construction environment.

Which civil engineering project (past or present) do you wish you’d worked on?

The Millau Viaduct is an incredible structure, and as someone who loves bridges, it’s my favourite.

Its elegance stands as a true testament to engineering talent.

Name one civil engineering myth you’d like to bust.

As a Black woman in engineering, I just want to say that there’s a space for us here.

I think the big misconception that the industry is heavily male dominated and not appealing to women is incorrect.

Yes, the industry does have large numbers of men, but there are many inspirational women doing amazing things in the engineering industry.

Once you join, you’ll see that things are changing.

What is motivating you to become professionally qualified? 

It’s recognised globally that you have met the standards to be called a Chartered Engineer. This accolade lets other people know the level you work at and opens the door to many job opportunities.

What does being professionally qualified with the ICE mean for your career?

It’s the next step in my career journey and a milestone I’ve always wanted to achieve.

How is the ICE and/or your employer supporting you to become professionally qualified? 

My employers are very supportive.

The graduate scheme I’m currently on is tailored so that at the end of it, you have met all the attributes to sit your Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) review.

What do you value most about being an ICE member? 

The amount of resource we have access to is amazing, it allows us to grow in our professional journey.

Also, the pool of ICE mentors that we can connect with is amazing. Mentorship is vital in any stage of life.

Anything else?

As a civil engineer who loves traveling, I have a deep appreciation for the effort and dedication invested in the structures and transportation systems I come across worldwide.

Understanding the thorough process required to make them user-ready adds to my admiration.