insights Celebrating Lydia: A Trailblazing Senior Electrical Engineer from Egypt

We want to celebrate the achievements and inspiring journeys of our colleagues within the Group. So meet Lydia Refaat, Senior Electrical Engineer who is based in Egypt with the AtkinsRéalis Group, including Atkins and Faithful+Gould. 

As a global engineering company, we are committed to empowering and supporting talented professionals like Lydia in pursuing their passions and making a difference in their respective fields. Learn about her dedication to Electrical Engineering and her insights on empowering women in the business. 

Why did you pursue engineering? 

“I chose this field of study and profession and I guess Engineering chose me as well! Engineering is an innovative field that enables you to constantly learn and enhance your skills and knowledge. 

A career in engineering gives me the opportunity to solve problems and design things that really matter, things that make the world a better place. As an engineer, I can use my talent to find solutions to complex problems, it’s an opportunity to make your mark on the world. And I find this very exciting and fulfilling.”

Our purpose is to engineer a better future for our planet and its people by creating sustainable solutions that connect people, data and technology to design, deliver and operate the most complex projects. If you want to help solve problems behind today's most pressing global challenge, then the AtkinsRéalis Group could be your next career destination. 

Which areas of engineering interest you the most and why? 

“Definitely, Electrical Engineering, I have had a passion for this field since I started to study engineering in 2009. I aspire to create new methodologies to reduce electrical risks in any given system. It is about the possibility of preventing and solving problems, permanently carrying out fieldwork and understanding the complexity of electrical systems.” 

We will give you the freedom to think differently, boldly, and proudly. This is how we stay at the forefront of innovation and redefine engineering. 

In your view, why is women’s empowerment important for sustainable development? 

“Gender equality is imperative in any field. Women and men both have different perspectives and ideas for change, they will enrich and add value to sustainable development issues. We can all make a difference, I think we all have a responsibility to contribute to protecting the world we are living in, without any forms of discrimination.”

We are committed to creating a culture that promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion in the Middle East. With a workforce that spans the globe and a commitment to delivering projects with integrity, we understand the importance of building a team of diverse individuals with a range of experiences and perspectives. 

What are the current challenges for women in science? What is the key to success in a career in science? 

“Unfortunately, in this industry, women still face stigma more often than men. Women are also compensated and evaluated less than men. The key to success is self-confidence and continuous learning and development.” 

Through our commitment to promoting equality and inclusion, we have created an environment where everyone feels valued and respected and are taking tangible steps towards building a more diverse and inclusive workplace. We strive to build a workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to perform their best. 

What message would you give to young women Engineers? 

“Don’t give up on yourself! Be passionate, learn every day and improve your skills and knowledge.” 

Looking for your next Electrical Engineering job? You might just find your perfect role with us.

We have vacancies in a number of markets, including cities & development, clean power, water and industrial & manufacturing. Explore our Electrical Engineering careers at the AtkinsRéalis Group or sign up for job alerts.