In an industry long defined by hard hats, steel-toe boots and male representation, Malvern civil engineer Nathisha Moonsamy is proving there is more than one way to build a successful career in engineering.
As the world marks International Women in Engineering Day today, 23 June, Moonsamy’s story serves as a reminder that engineering is not defined by gender, but by passion, purpose and the determination to make a difference.
Passionate about creating infrastructure that improves lives and connects communities, she is helping to reshape perceptions of who belongs in STEM while inspiring young women to pursue their ambitions without compromising who they are.
For Moonsamy, the path to engineering began with a love for mathematics and science. However, it was the realisation that she could use those skills to solve real-world problems and improve people’s lives that cemented her decision to pursue civil engineering.
“I could combine technical problem-solving with creating something that directly improves people’s lives. Seeing roads and infrastructure I helped design become a reality gave me a sense of purpose and confirmed that this was where I belonged,” she explained.
Like many aspiring engineers, Moonsamy initially believed the profession would revolve largely around calculations and technical drawings. Instead, she discovered a dynamic career that requires collaboration, innovation and a deep understanding of how infrastructure affects the communities it serves.
“Every project tells a story and brings new challenges,” she said.
Today, her work gives her a unique perspective on the world around her. While most people see a road as simply a way to get from one place to another, Moonsamy sees the layers beneath it — the drainage systems, materials, traffic studies, environmental considerations and countless decisions that ensure it functions safely and efficiently.
She believes roads are among the most underestimated pieces of infrastructure in society.
“People drive on them every day without realising the amount of planning, testing, design and quality control that goes into delivering a road that can safely serve communities for decades,” she said.
One of the most rewarding aspects of her career is watching a project move from concept to construction and eventually become something communities rely on daily.
“There is something special about seeing an idea evolve into infrastructure that will serve generations,” she said.
Beyond the technical aspects of engineering, Moonsamy is passionate about the role women play in shaping the future of the profession. She is encouraged by the growing visibility of women in leadership positions and specialised technical fields and believes the industry is increasingly recognising women for their expertise and contributions.
She said confidence in engineering comes not from trying to fit in, but from building competence and trusting your abilities.
“Strong mentors and supportive colleagues played a huge role, but ultimately confidence came from experience and delivering successful projects. That’s when I realised I had earned my place and that my voice deserved to be heard.”
Moonsamy believes women bring valuable qualities to engineering that are sometimes overlooked.
“Women bring diverse perspectives, empathy, collaboration and strong leadership qualities. These attributes are essential for creating infrastructure solutions that truly serve people and communities.”
When reflecting on her career, what makes her most proud is not the technical achievements, but the positive impact her work has on people’s lives.
“I am proud that my work has contributed to improving access, mobility and quality of life for communities. Knowing that people can travel more safely and efficiently because of something I helped deliver is incredibly meaningful,” she said.
As engineering continues to evolve through sustainability, digital technologies and smarter design approaches, Moonsamy is excited to be part of an industry focused on creating resilient, efficient and environmentally responsible infrastructure.
Looking ahead, she hopes to continue building sustainable infrastructure while mentoring the next generation of engineers, particularly young women considering careers in STEM.
Her message to girls who may be questioning whether engineering is for them is clear: “Engineering is not about fitting a stereotype. It is about curiosity, creativity and determination. If you enjoy solving problems and want to make a meaningful difference in the world, there is a place for you in engineering.”
And perhaps her most powerful message is one that challenges outdated perceptions of what an engineer should look like.
“I love pink, I embrace my femininity, and I also love talking about soils and pavements. You can wear heels, enjoy makeup and fashion, and still spend your day solving complex engineering challenges. Being feminine and being an engineer are not mutually exclusive.”
As International Women in Engineering Day shines a spotlight on women breaking barriers in STEM, Nathisha Moonsamy stands as proof that the future of engineering is not only innovative and resilient, but also diverse, inclusive and full of possibility.
