International Women's Day 2025: Meet Naomi Bell
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we wanted to find out from the women who work in our industry what it is like to work in an environment that is predominantly male dominated.
Today, we spoke to Naomi Bell who works in Engineering as a Controls Engineer.
Naomi, tell us what motivated you to pursue a career in this field?
I enjoyed electronics in school and did this at GCSE level as the only girl in the class. I’ve always enjoyed the challenge of problem solving and fixing things and so this was the perfect career choice.
Have you had any mentors or role models who helped shape your career? If so, how did they influence you?
My brother planted the seed of going into engineering. He told me that engineering is a strong trade to have and that it is an industry that are looking for more women. He convinced me that an apprenticeship would be better than going to university and he was right!
The friends I gained in the workplace from the beginning also helped me feel more comfortable in the male environment, which in turn helped me to develop my career.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?
When I first joined as an Apprentice I was underestimated because of old-fashioned values. I feel like this has changed now but have still had to work hard to prove myself.
What changes would you like to see in this industry to make it more inclusive for women?
More girls in school should be encouraged to take up engineering subjects. It was only because of my brother that I did this and not because of any promotion in school. More needs to be done to encourage females to go into engineering and this is something that companies could help with.
If you met your younger self for coffee, what would you say to her?
Be brave, Naomi! Don’t give up and keep up the hard work.
What misconceptions do people have about women working in construction, and how do you challenge them?
Damned if you do, damned if you don’t! There was an assumption at college that when I got my apprenticeship, it was only because I am female rather than it being on merit. There can also be an assumption that if you fail, it’s because you are female. I overcome these challenges by proving myself and doing a good job.
Finally, you’ve spoken about your role and the industry but how do you achieve work-life balance, what do you like to do in your spare time?
When I’m not in work you can find me hiking in the Lakes or the Cheviots, keeping fit in the gym and travelling as much as I can.