Amanda Constantinesco MIStructE

The development of my career

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some exceptionally talented engineers. These individuals have not only honed my technical skills but also demonstrated the importance of collaboration, attention to detail, and maintaining high standards. Working with likeminded people has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my job - those relationships have been key to delivering exceptional buildings. Engineering isn’t just about technical calculations or solving problems; it’s about teamwork, trust, and shared values.
One of the most significant shifts in my career has come after returning to work part-time following the birth of my second child. Navigating the balance between childcare and career has certainly presented its challenges, but I’ve been inspired by the women at my company, Integral Engineering Design, who have successfully managed this delicate balancing act. Knowing that they too faced hurdles, and yet came out stronger, gives me the confidence that I too can achieve the same.

Role models and their impact

I believe both male and female role models have played a crucial role in shaping my career. I’ve had the privilege of working with women at Integral who are exceptional role models, not only because of their ability to balance family and work, but also for their drive to succeed and promote better ways of doing things in our industry. These women have pushed boundaries, not necessarily defined by their personal lives, but by their commitment to innovation and leadership. Their passion and vision for creating a better-built environment have been incredibly inspiring.

Similarly, I’ve been influenced by the male engineers I’ve worked alongside over the years, whose dedication to excellence and mentorship have guided me throughout my career. They’ve shown me the importance of collaboration and have been instrumental in developing my technical and leadership skills.
 
Together, these individuals have inspired me to push myself, embrace challenges, and continually strive for progress, both in the work I do and in fostering a more inclusive and innovative engineering environment.
 

Career highlights

Over the course of my career, I’ve been lucky to work on some incredible projects. The ones that stand out to me are those that involved repurposing buildings for new uses. There’s something truly satisfying about breathing new life into a structure, preserving its character while adapting it to meet modern needs. I’ve also had the privilege of being recognised by other industry professionals for my work, which is always an honour and a reminder of why I do what I do.

Adaptive reuse project at London School for Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), which involved the redesign of their social space to foster connection, improved circulation, and enhanced natural light. The new staircase, known as the ‘big steps’ creates a real focal point for the School.
credit: Integral Engineering Design

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Regenerative project for St Mary’s Church in Walthamstow, which included repair and re-ordering of the Grade II* listed church and a new timber extension to serve the local community. Credit: Patricia Woodward of Mathew Lloyd Architects.
 

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Bias and resilience

As for bias, I’m fortunate to say that I haven’t knowingly experienced significant bias in my career. I’m aware that this isn’t the case for everyone, and it’s important to acknowledge that barriers still exist in our industry. I’ve always been a doer - if someone says I can’t do something, I’ll prove them wrong by doing it anyway. That mindset has helped me stay focused on my goals and not let negativity or doubt hold me back. However, I recognise the importance of supporting those who face bias and advocating for change in the industry.

Building a truly inclusive future

To create a truly inclusive structural engineering industry, I believe we need to focus on three key areas:

1. Flexible Working Arrangements: It’s essential for companies to offer flexible working conditions that allow individuals - particularly parents to manage both their personal and professional lives. The ability to work part-time or remotely can make all the difference in retaining talented engineers who might otherwise leave the profession.

2.  Visible Role Models: Representation matters. Having more women and other underrepresented groups in senior positions within engineering companies is crucial. These role models serve as a source of inspiration and proof that it’s possible to rise to the top, no matter your background.

3. Mentorship and Support Networks: Establishing strong mentorship programmes and support networks can help guide the next generation of engineers, providing them with the tools and encouragement they need to succeed in their careers. It’s about fostering a culture of collaboration, learning, and growth.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I’m reminded of the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead. Structural engineering is an incredibly rewarding career, and I’m hopeful that, through continued efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, we can inspire more women to join and thrive in the industry.