Hollie Taylor is a Geo Environmental Engineer at Amey whose engineering journey was fuelled by her passion for the environment and a process-driven mindset. Her fascination with geology blossomed thanks to an enthusiastic teacher who brought the subject to life.

Recently honoured as a “Rising Star – Contribution to Gender Diversity” at the Inspiring Women in Construction & Engineering Conference and Awards, Hollie is a strong advocate for young girls, encouraging them to believe in themselves, build supportive networks, embrace challenges, and prioritise self-care as they navigate their careers. She is passionate about fostering greater diversity in the engineering field.

Today, we’ll explore her life and motivations, uncovering the insights and advice that have shaped her remarkable journey.

When did you realise that a career in engineering was right for you? 

I realised that a career in geo-environmental engineering was right for me when I combined my passion for the environment with my process-driven mindset and curiosity about how natural geological systems work.

Although there was no moment in particular for me, there was a particular teacher – Gareth Daniels. He was the most passionate and devoted teacher who pushed me into the wonderful world of geology. Even after all his years in the classroom he taught me and other students with such enthusiasm and unwavering support like it was his first day in the job. And that really stuck with me because I thought this must be an interesting subject if this one person could be so captivated by it for so long. I was fortunate to attend a school that offered Geology from GCSE to A level, with a practical-led course that perfectly complemented my process-driven nature. Seeing the theory come to life through hands-on experiences reinforced my interest and commitment to the field.

Gareth was exceptional at translating complex geological theories into practical applications, showing how they relate to various career paths. His ability to connect classroom learning with real-world scenarios made the subject even more engaging and relevant. This was how I first found interest in engineering.

How did you get into Geo-Environmental engineering?

I was always drawn to STEM subjects at school, thoroughly enjoying my studies in science and mathematics. This passion led me to the University of Liverpool, where I pursued a degree in Geology, providing me with a solid foundation in the field.

After taking a gap year to travel through New Zealand and Australia, I felt ready to start my career, though I was still uncertain about the specific path I wanted to take. I decided to enrol in a master’s program in Applied Environmental Geology at the University of Cardiff. This program delved into the practical aspects of geology and included a six-month work experience dissertation project. This opportunity allowed me to gain firsthand experience in a real working environment, helping me determine whether I would enjoy a career in the industry. And here I am.

What advice would you give to young girls considering a career in engineering?

If you’re thinking about diving into the world of engineering, that’s amazing! You have incredible potential, so trust in your abilities and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Look for mentors and role models who inspire you—they can offer invaluable advice and support. Stay curious and keep asking questions, as your curiosity will be your greatest asset. Try to get as much practical experience as you can through apprenticeships/grad schemes, workshops, and projects to see how engineering applies in the real world. Build a strong network of peers and professionals, as networking can open up many opportunities. Embrace challenges as chances to learn and grow, and remember that your unique perspective is valuable in advocating for diversity and inclusion in engineering. Lastly, balance your work with self-care, as your well-being is just as important as your career. The world needs more women in engineering to bring fresh ideas and solutions, so go for it and enjoy the journey!

Curious about our #ShesAnEngineer series? Dive into our video series featuring women who are driving change and breaking down barriers in this male-dominated field. Discover their inspiring stories here: https://www.alexander-assoc.co.uk/women-in-engineering.