Stories Of Women in Engineering – Rabia Tas

How did you develop your interest in engineering? What factors influenced your decision to pursue a career in this field? 

I have always enjoyed understanding how machines and equipment work. And, ever since my childhood, I have been disassembling faulty equipment to try to repair them or setting up water/electric installations. Understanding, repairing, and wanting to improve have been the motivating factors that led me towards a scientific path, and what better way to embody this thirst for knowledge than through engineering?   

What are your career goals for the future? How do you see your expertise and experience contributing to the advancement of engineering?  

I don’t have a specific goal in mind. I’m more of an adaptable person who sets goals based on opportunities. I believe that, in addition to technical skills, being agile is necessary to keep up with technological advancements and to pivot according to the evolving needs of society. Being an engineer is also about refining existing skills in the field while developing new ones.  

Can you describe your role and responsibilities?   

I am a consultant in the engineering department, and I currently work as a project manager in the nuclear sector.  

What is your vision of the place of women engineers in the professional world? 

The place of women is essential in this field, as it has long been dominated by men. And, even today we still lack the presence of women in engineering. We shouldn’t underestimate them, and what they can bring to this field. 

What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day?

The interactions with humans, learning something new every day and the feeling that I contribute to change something.   

What does Building Tomorrow’s World Today mean to you? How do you see this concept playing out in the context of engineering and innovation?  

Bringing together high standards, ambition, agility and passion. It means that here at ALTEN we support the world’s technological development with our expertise and experience in a sustainable way. 

How can engineering contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future?  

At this question, I want to add “Why are engineers important to our society and the world?”. Engineers play an important role in pushing the boundaries of applied science and solving technical problems that enable construction, manufacturing, medicine, and numerous other areas to reach new heights. The field is often at the leading edge of innovation and plays a significant role in shaping society and its future. Sustainable engineering is important for environmental conservation, economic benefits, and social benefits such as social justice and equity. 

What challenges you the most in your work – your team, your clients, yourself? Do you feel empowered to make decisions?   

I hold high standards for myself and constantly seek improvement. That’s why I strive to outperform my previous efforts in my work. I’ve also dealt with demanding clients, but it generally motivates me to go above and beyond to meet their expectations. My initiative and decision-making depend on my comfort with the subject, and if I feel confident, I don’t hesitate. Being able to influence a project through my decisions is a rewarding aspect of the job.