CDE celebrates its women engineers

This year, International Women in Engineering Day reaches its milestone 10th year, and CDE is joining the celebrations to recognise the impact its women engineers have across the business and the globe.

Beth Teggart’s career with CDE has taken her from Northern Ireland to Australia. Photo: CDE

Ellen McGhee joined CDE in 2022 as part of the company’s Graduate Development Programme before securing a full-time role as a graduate technical engineer working on the development of washing solutions for customers in Australia, the Middle East and Africa.

“My first year at CDE has been an all-round great experience,” said Ellen.

“They have excellent systems in place to help with the transition from university to working life whilst facilitating growth, both personally and professionally.

“I was given the confidence to pursue my interests in a male-dominated industry. The men in my family were advocates and allies, providing encouragement and support.”

Graduate design engineer Rachael Harris added: “It wasn’t in my plan to enrol in a foundation degree before university, but I did and it has proved to be one of the most worthwhile things I have ever done.

“I completed multiple placements during this time and these learning experiences cemented my passion for engineering, something that dates back to my days spotting planes and trains with my dad.”

Installation support engineer Beth Teggart joined CDE in 2021. Initially stationed at CDE’s fabrication facility in Monkstown, Northern Ireland, she is now based in Australia.

“I have a love for travel and the opportunity to work in-market, gain experience and build expertise is a real perk of the job.

CDE’s Saoirse Nash was inspired to pursue a career in engineering by one of her school teachers. Photo: CDE

“As engineers we provide solutions to problems and having more women around the table will bring a fresh perspective to complex problem solving.

“CDE trusts in my ability to travel across our markets, providing technical advice and guidance on the safe and efficient installation of our solutions. I firmly believe this is reflective of the value placed on women and their roles in the business.”

Product design engineer Saoirse Nash decided to pursue a career in the industry after being inspired by one of her teachers while at school.

“She pushed me to further develop my investigative and problem-solving skills, to be more confident and embrace my passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

“That source of encouragement was instrumental in those early years. It led me on a path of discovery and I subsequently developed a love and curiosity for engineering.”

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