Women in Construction: Jenny Surachawala
Women in construction are breaking barriers, leading projects, and shaping the future of our built environment. To celebrate Women in Construction Week, we sat down with Jenny Surachawala, a professional engineer at KLJ, to hear about her experiences in the construction engineering field. Jenny is a licensed professional engineer with extensive experience in roadway reconstruction, renewable energy, and telecommunications projects. She specializes in leading the design and execution of civil site developments, including solar and wind projects, and overseeing wireless site designs. Surachawala’s expertise includes project coordination, engineering management, and technical problem-solving. She earned her master’s degree in construction engineering and management from Columbia University.
What inspired you to pursue a career in construction engineering?
As of 2023, women constitute approximately 16.7% of the engineering workforce in the United States. Engineers are at the forefront of some of the most significant advancements in our society, addressing challenges such as global warming, making medical breakthroughs, and developing technologies that transform our daily lives. These innovations enhance our quality of life in numerous ways. My inspiration to become an engineer stems not only from these groundbreaking technologies but also from my father, who has a keen interest in civil engineering and a vast collection of civil engineering books at home. Growing up, I enjoyed solving mathematical and physical problems, which led me to pursue a degree in civil engineering.
During my design classes, I learned to design and analyze building and foundation structures using hand calculations and drawings. Witnessing these designs come to life in the real world was truly fascinating. I realized that engineering equips you with the skills to build anything you can imagine, from websites and mobile apps to bridges and highways. This ability to create and construct is what makes engineering so compelling.
What is one challenge you have faced as a woman in construction, and how did you overcome it?
One common challenge faced by women in this industry is overcoming gender bias and stereotypes. These challenges can manifest in various ways, such as being underestimated by colleagues, facing unequal opportunities for advancement, or encountering a lack of mentorship and support. Coming from a different background and culture, I had to work harder to understand and adapt to the culture here. I learned the importance of creating open communication channels so that everyone feels welcome to express their ideas and concerns.
Building a strong network by connecting with other professionals, both male and female, has been crucial in creating a support system and receiving valuable advice. I have a female role model in engineering, one of my classmates, whose career achievements and advancements inspire me professionally. Additionally, seeking mentorship from someone you trust is very important and can significantly aid in your career growth.
What advice would you give to women interested in construction and engineering?
Follow your passion. Gain hands-on experience and be open to taking on new assignments and roles, even if they fall outside your typical scope of work. These opportunities will expand your network and provide you with diverse perspectives and skills.
Women are driving innovation and excellence in the construction and engineering industries, and we’re proud to support and empower women in these fields, paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative future!
