Building controls is an exciting place to be!
In celebration of International Women in Engineering Day, we’re focusing on those working in the BEMS industry and hear from Caroline Fright, Managing Director at Carbon Numbers.
What do you find most exciting or meaningful about working in building controls?
The capacity to really make a difference to the built environment and leading cultural change to focus on energy and carbon reduction. By monitoring and measuring energy usage and using innovative technologies to optimise buildings we can drive down energy consumption to target sustainability goals for the future of our planet. We can make a positive impact by building a sustainable future through smarter energy choices.
What skills do you think are essential for success in building controls?
The ability to be open and adapt to new ideas, technologies and solutions is a key attribute. Technology moves quickly and you need to be prepared to continually learn and grow.
What advice would you give to young women or girls considering a career in engineering or building controls?
Go for it! It’s challenging, forward thinking and rewarding. No two days are the same. Whether you are desk-based or out in the field, each day brings something new - from resolving an urgent building issue to presenting data on energy saving solutions. It involves interacting with a wide range of people, ongoing learning and knowledge sharing.
Do you think the industry is becoming more inclusive? What progress still needs to happen?
The industry is definitely becoming more inclusive. 12 years ago as a female in our industry it was very hard to have a voice. Now there are numerous groups and platforms where we can have an equal input and be heard with many amazing females who are at the forefront of this. There is still an unbalanced ratio of men vs women but this balance is slowly re-adjusting. To progress this further, we need to attract more females to the industry. We need to squash the misconception that the gender stereotypes exist and promote that the industry is inclusive, supportive and a sector that holds varied and exciting opportunities for everyone.
What is the best advice you have received?
Not advice that I have received directly, but the quote ‘if you are the smartest person in the room then you’re in the wrong room’ really resonates with me. There is always something to learn and others to learn from. Ask questions. Don’t be baffled by acronyms – our industry is full of them and don’t be afraid to ask what they mean! If we limit ourselves to what we already know then we are not challenging or growing. Find something or someone that inspires you every day – building controls is an exciting place to be!