Today (8 March) is International Women's Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.
This International Women’s Day we shine a spotlight on five of the Geo2 team; Project Manager Siobhán Hyde, our Office Manager Tracey Hughes, Principal Consultant Lizzy Moorhouse, Geo-Environmental Consultant Anna Higgins and Marketing and Communications Manager Jo Foster.
We asked them what their proudest work achievement is and how to succeed in a predominantly male populated environment.
Siobhán Hyde has over ten years’ experience in contaminated land assessment, remediation and environmental consultancy. As Project Manager, Siobhán is a great organiser and sits at the heart of the team, playing a vital role in project delivery.
“I love seeing the transformation of brownfield sites, starting from receiving a client's request for a scope of work, then conducting desk studies and ground investigations during the planning phase, and finally driving past a successfully redeveloped area that contributes positively to the community and poses minimal risk to the environment. It is incredibly satisfying.”
“I think [being in a male populated environment] it’s a balancing act, particularly if working on site. You need to have a good sense of humour and be able to get on with the ‘lads’ but know when to stamp your authority when you have to.”
New recruit Anna Higgins possesses advanced expertise in site investigation, monitoring, report writing, data analysis, and laboratory skills. Her fantastic organisational skills ensure site works run smoothly, as well as supporting in project management.
“There are a number of highlights, however, returning to Northumbria University to present a talk to my former MSc course was a particularly proud achievement. I was able to inform the cohort of students about possible career pathways after university and spoke about my own journey from a gradate to becoming a geo-environmental consultant. It was a very positive experience, especially to see women on the course take an interest in the environmental sector.”
“Yes, there are generally more men in the office and especially on site, BUT you will never be the only woman. Take up space. The more women entering the industry the better the statistics of working in a ‘male populated’ industry become. I am lucky enough to have worked (and currently working) alongside some fantastic women at all levels of consultancy from graduates up to associates. Having the support from other women in the industry has been great in helping me progress in my career.”
Office Manager Tracey Hughes plays a pivotal part in ensuring the seamless operation of the Geo2 office, behind the scenes but just as essential as our lead engineers.
“I most proud of being able to be self-motivated, taking on tasks and running with them, being open and approachable and a team player all whilst balancing full-time work while being a single parent.”
“I don’t feel like I’m in the minority as I see the Geo2 work force as level and not male versus female, we all work together to turn the cogs. I have developed good working relationships and am confident in my work.”
Principal Consultant Lizzy Moorhouse is a highly experienced Geo-Environmental Consultant, fantastic communicator and project manager. Lizzy proactively manages projects on behalf of our clients and runs a highly effective and efficient team.
“[My proudest achievement is] working hard and being recognised for it.”
“Being in a male populated environment can potentially feel overwhelming at times or possibly lead to developing imposter syndrome. Be yourself, work hard and don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t deserve to be there! Inspire other females to succeed. Don’t fly under the radar and take credit for your own work.”
Jo Foster is our Marketing and Communications Manager at Geo2. Her role is to share our story, spreading the word through a comprehensive marketing strategy and showcasing what we have achieved, what we can do and where we are going next.
“I’m always proudest at work when the strategic marketing plan I create and deliver helps a brand to grow and develop on the back it.”
“I don’t particularly worry about being in a predominately male populated industry. Make sure you are visible, develop good working relationships, know your worth and build a support structure around you – with male and female colleagues.”
Find out more about the Geo2 team here - www.geo2.co.uk/about