At Acorn, we believe that great engineering drives great facilities management and behind that are the skilled, passionate women who are helping shape the future of our industry.

To mark International Women in Engineering Day 2025, we’re shining a light on the talented women across our M&E teams. We interviewed to hear their stories to find out what inspired their journey into engineering, what it means to work in this field today, and their vision for the future of women in engineering and facilities management.

Engineering Leadership: Meet Shannon and Toni

This International Women in Engineering Day, we’re spotlighting the brilliant women driving technical excellence at Acorn.

In this video:

• Shannon Smith – Technical Operations Support Manager
• Toni Palfrey –  Contracts Manager

They share their personal experiences in the engineering and the facilities management industry. From their career growth journey to breaking barriers and highlighting the importance of female representation in traditionally male-dominated roles.

Real Stories from Women in Engineering

We’ve discussed several interesting questions with some of our talented women leaders within the industry who have shared their experiences, perspectives and providing helpful advice.

Who are they?

• Kerry Ramsey – Electrical Services Manager
• Kodie Poturicic – HR Manager
• Stephanie Winterbourne – Group Executive Assistant

Q1. What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering

Kerry: “Engineering wasn’t something I originally set out to do. After university, I began my career in the property management industry, but over time, I felt ready for a new challenge. A family member, who is an electrical engineer, told me about an opportunity at Acorn, & I realised that many of the skills I had developed—like problem-solving, project coordination, communication—were highly transferable to engineering.”

Kodie: “I was motivated to pursue engineering to challenge gender stereotypes and show that engineering is a field open to everyone.”

Stephanie: “I have always worked in construction and engineering, it was just a path that I just landed in.”

Q2. What advice would you give to young women thinking about a career in engineering?

Kerry: “My advice to young women considering a career in engineering is go for it! Engineering is about solving problems and can be very rewarding. Don’t let doubt or fear hold you back!”

Kodie: “To young women considering a career in engineering, remember that engineering is a field of diverse paths, so don’t be afraid to explore different areas and find what excites you.”

Stephanie: “Don’t be afraid or feel overwhelmed.”

Q3. How can workplaces better support women in engineering roles?

Kerry: “I think it starts with creating an environment where women feel genuinely included and supported. Having strong role models, mentors, and managers who believe in your potential can make a huge difference. That support shouldn’t just start in the workplace either. More can be done in schools and colleges to inspire and encourage young women to consider engineering.”

Kodie: “Fostering an inclusive culture, providing mentorship and role models, ensuring fair recruitment practices, and promoting work-life balance.”

Stephanie: “To make them feel welcome and equal.”

Q4. What challenges have you faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry?

Kerry: “There have been moments when people are surprised to see a woman in my role. While those reactions can be frustrating, I see them as opportunities to challenge outdated assumptions. I focus on doing my job to the highest standard, and I’ve found that delivering strong results is the best way to shift perceptions. Over time, people see my capability, not just my gender.”

Stephanie: “Being overlooked and spoken down to, made to not feel important. This was many years ago though, times have changed massively for women.”

Q5. What did you study and how has your education supported your career in engineering/facilities management?

Kodie: “I have worked in the industry for a number of years now – here at acorn we have a very good support system with good accessibility to the relevant training. I am currently doing my CIPD level 5 which has been championed and supported by Acorn.”

Stephanie: “Studied construction at college which gave me general knowledge of this industry.”

Q6. How has Acorn supported your journey so far within your role?

Kerry: “Acorn has been incredibly supportive throughout my journey. I’ve received consistent encouragement and guidance from my line manager, who has played a key role in helping me build my confidence and develop professionally.”

Kodie: “We are lucky to have a good working culture here at Acorn, there is real family feel here. Everyone prioritises trust, respect, empathy and support for whoever needs it.”

Stephanie: “Acorn have supported me massively, I have always been given opportunities to progress my career and been given the training and resources to help do so.”

Q7. What do you enjoy most about working for Acorn?

Kerry: “What I enjoy most about working here is definitely the people. It’s great to be part of a team that’s supportive, knowledgeable, and collaborative. I also love that no two days are the same—every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, which keeps the work exciting.”

Kodie: “The fact that not every day is the same and no matter what, I know I will always have the support of my peers”

Stephanie: “My colleagues, Acorn has a family feel, we all look after each other and lift each other up when needed.”

A Message to the Next Generation

To any young women considering a future in engineering, there is a place for you here. Your ideas, your creativity and your voice are needed more than ever. The industry is evolving and adapting, loads of women are choosing this path and feel comfortable doing what they love despite engineering typically being male dominated.

To those who already have joined a career in engineering, keep on going. You are the strong leading females who are making history and changing our industry for the better.

Contact us today if you’d like to begin a career within the engineering and FM sector.