At Intermarine UK, we’re proud to recognise the women across our business who play a vital role in delivering complex projects in marine, offshore, energy, and defence.
From engineering and project coordination to operations and business support, these women contribute every day with skill, leadership, and focus. They help us solve problems, deliver for clients, and build strong, capable teams across all environments.
To mark International Women in Engineering Day 2025, we asked some of the women at Intermarine UK about their careers, challenges, and what engineering means to them. Their experiences reflect the depth of talent within our business and why diverse, inclusive teams are essential to future success.
#TogetherWeEngineer #INWED2025
Meet Sibongile,
I am a dedicated mechanical fitter with a passion for solving complex problems and driving innovation in the field. With 6 years of experience in the industry, I’ve worked across various roles, ranging from JNR Quality Controller and Mechanical Fitter Assistant. My background includes an N4 in mechanical engineering, and still continuing to study and grow in the field.
My background combines both technical and mechanical skill sets, allowing me to work effectively in collaborative environments and deliver results. I’m passionate about continuous learning and always seek opportunities to grow, both professionally and personally.
Throughout my career, I’ve been recognised for my problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working in engineering/the industry?
“What I enjoy the most about working in engineering is the constant opportunity to solve real-world problems and turn ideas into physical, functional solutions that improve everyday life—I find that to be an incredibly rewarding experience.”
Q: How important is the visibility of women in leadership positions to you?
“Visibility of women in leadership positions—especially in traditionally male-dominated fields like mechanical engineering—I feel is critically important because it breaks stereotypes, and promotes diverse perspectives. It’s not only about optics, but also about the shift in power and expanding opportunities.”
Q: Have you had any mentors during your career? How did they help?
“I have never had any mentors in this field because there’s just a handful of us [women] in mechanical engineering.”
Q: What barriers, if any, have you faced as a woman in the industry?
“The barriers that I have faced as a woman in this field are enormous, which are stereotyping and evaluation bias, to mention a few, but I don’t want to focus on that because it does not define or change the way women in my field have thrived and push boundaries.”
Q: What changes would you like to see to help more women succeed in the industry?
“Actively challenge the perception that mechanical engineering is a “male” field through inclusive media, school messaging, and curriculum. Minimise bias in the hiring process by focusing on skills and qualifications without personal identifiers. Ensure early-career female engineers receive equal opportunities for training, challenging projects, and career growth.”
Meet Simmy,
I am Simphiwe Mncede (Simmy), an enthusiastic engineer with a passion for lifting, moving and installing engineering, e.g. rigging, appoint personnel, lifting supervisor, lifting inspectors, etc.
With 19 years of experience in the industry, I have worked on diverse projects ranging from refineries, power stations, solar power plants, nuclear power plants, mining, windmill plants, and now shipbuilding. I thank Intermarine UK for helping me with opportunities to work on shipbuilding projects.
I am dedicated to promoting sustainable practices and believe in the power of innovation to solve today’s challenges. Outside of work, I am an advocate for encouraging young women to pursue careers in engineering, sharing insights and mentorship to help them thrive in this field.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering/the industry?
“From a young age, I was fascinated by how things work. Building structures with LEGO (toys) and conducting experiments in science class sparked my interest in problem-solving and creativity. I pursued engineering to turn my passion for technology into a fulfilling career that also allows me to make a lasting impact on society.”
Q: What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your role?
“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is the lack of representation of women in engineering led to self-doubt. Additionally, navigating complex projects with tight deadlines has pushed me to hone my time management and collaboration skills, making me more resilient in stressful situations.”
Q: How did training or development opportunities impact your career?
“Training opportunities have been instrumental in my development. Participating in workshops and certification programs has equipped me with the latest industry knowledge and technical skills, allowing me to take on more responsibility and leadership roles in projects, enhancing my confidence and career trajectory.”
Q: What career achievement are you most proud of?
“I am most proud of leading a project that successfully implemented sustainable engineering practices in our last construction phase, reducing waste by 30%. This not only benefited our company but also contributed to the broader goal of sustainability in our industry.”
Q: What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the industry?
“Stay curious and never be afraid to ask questions! Surround yourself with mentors and peers who support and inspire you. Remember that your unique perspective is valuable, and persistence is key. Embrace challenges as an opportunity to grow.”
Meet Tanya,
My name is Tanya Alexander. I am a fitter and Turner by trade and am currently working as a mechanical fitter for Intermarine UK.
I qualified in 2015 and have been enjoying my trade ever since. I have worked in the alcohol, shipping, petrol, chemical and nuclear industry since. I’ve always been technically inclined and was fortunate to make a career of it. The satisfaction of machining, putting things together and seeing it work has kept me in this industry and interested.
I am now a mother, and the best part of my job is that it is of a nature that I do not take it home with me. I feel empowered as a female in a male-dominated industry. It has taken me across the world. It is in high demand, and it has taught me a lot. It has taught me that as a woman, I can do anything I put my mind to. I am honoured and proud to be an artisan and would encourage any female to consider pursuing this line of work. Thank you.
Q: How did you get started in your engineering career?
“I was interested in motor mechanics, but a lecturer at the college I registered at encouraged me to study fitting and turning instead. I’ve never regretted it.”
Q: What’s a misconception people often have about your job or sector?
“That it is a job only men should do.”
Q: What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?
“Not to be anxious about working in new environments. You’ll never stop learning in this industry.”
Q: How do you think the conversation around gender in engineering has shifted recently?
“It has shifted significantly. There’s a greater understanding of the dynamics of women in the industry. This derives from how successful women have become in this industry across the globe.”
Q: What would you tell your younger self starting out?
“To study as much as I can, and not to be too hasty to start working just yet—take my time and learn.”
Meet Inok,
Hi, my name is Erica Dimaculangan, just call me Inok. I’m currently working as a plater with Intermarine UK.
I have been working in shipyards and heavy fabrications for more than 15 years now. I started out as a welder for various ship repairs and new construction ship building projects both for international and local clients in the Philippines. As it was my first job at 18 years old, I have felt an enormous curiosity and hunger to learn more and strive to be better at what I do.
Over the years I have come to love what I do as I enjoy it very much and also was able to provide for myself and my family. And as I grow inside this industry, I have also tried to learn other skill to help me improve and enrich my knowledge and skills, so I also became a welder/fabricator.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering/the industry?
“The main reason that inspired me to pursue this career is honestly my dream of becoming a welder, as I understand that being skilled will open more doors of opportunity, especially in this type of industry.”
Q: What does being a woman in engineering mean to you?
“To be able to work in this field being a woman means that we are being valued and appreciated for our capabilities to also contribute to a common goal. For me, it makes me proud that more women are being hired in this kind of industry today.”
Q: How has the engineering industry changed since you started?
“The industry has changed a lot since I started. Speaking from experience, I have tried to work abroad many times but there are only limited countries that allow or even consider hiring women as skilled workers. But here I am now, happily working and utilizing the knowledge I have gained. And also able to provide a better life for my family.”
Q: How important is early engagement in schools/universities for shaping the future of women in engineering?
“It is very important to make women aware of the careers waiting for them in this industry early on, like myself, we had different classes for welding, electricity, automotive and drafting. It will open various opportunities for women, and they will have more choices on what to pursue.”
Q: What message would you like to share with future women engineers?
“To the brilliant women in this industry, your resilience and expertise are helping to shape the future. Keep breaking barriers, challenging norms and keep inspiring the next generation. Stay curious and never doubt your worth.”
Meet Nadia,
I am Nadia Cusi, currently a plater with Intermarine UK. I used to work as a welder, but have been in this type of work for almost 13 years at shipyards and fabrication plants.
Q: What has been your most rewarding career experience?
“To be able to work in this field being a woman, and to prove that not only men can do this kind of job. I’m proud because more women are hired in this kind of industry.”
Q: Have you noticed changes in attitudes towards women in the industry during your career?
“Changed a lot since I started. I learned and continue to learn more than I thought. Now I’m happily working with the knowledge I have gained and also to provide a better life not only for me for my family.”
Q: How can companies better support women in engineering roles?
“It’s important for women to be aware of the many career paths that await them in this industry. Like me, I want to learn more. I hope companies continue offer more, so that women like us can have greater opportunities to choose from in the future.”
Q: What message would you like to share with future women engineers?
“All I can say is, don’t lose hope. Pursue your dreams, let’s show women that we can do what men can do.”
Meet Ronell,
My name is Ronell Saal. I studied a 3-year apprenticeship at the Industries Education and Training Institute, Cape Town, South Africa. I’m 7 years qualified as an Electrician.
Q: What attracted you to your specific industry sector?
“What attracted me to my specific Industry sector is the unique blend of challenges and opportunities. What motivates me is my passion for working with electrical systems on ships.”
Q: What do you love most about working in the industry?
“I love the challenge of troubleshooting, problem-solving and working under pressure. I am always striving to improve my skills and knowledge in the field. It’s like giving the girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.”
Q: What’s one project or achievement you’re particularly proud of during your career?
“I had the opportunity to serve as Acting Team Leader at Nautic Africa/Veecraft Marine in 2022, which was a notable achievement for me.”
Q: Are there any female role models who have influenced your career?
“I met a lot of female role models in my career. I looked up to them. They were always passionate and goal-oriented about their work. I like to motivate the women in my industry. Do something you have always wanted to do, achieve your goals, learn new skills and stay ambitious and keep growing.”
Meet Roxanne,
Hi, my name is Roxanne Casanova, you can call me “dada”. I’m a Filipino welder working for Intermarine UK. It’s my third year now.
Q: What attracted you to your specific industry sector?
“The main reason why I chose this industry was, at first, by curiosity, how a ship is built, or how power plants work—something like that. When the opportunity came, I tried. At first it was so hard, until I learned, now I’m enjoying my job.”
Q: What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?
Q: What role does confidence play, and how have you built yours?
“As a welder, I built my own by learning, listening, watching who have more experience than me. I also push myself to stay strong and not give up, even when things are difficult.
Also, being a woman welder, I have experienced bullying in the past, because they think this job is only for men. I ignore it and prove them wrong.
