Sandrine – Senior Trainer

Sandrine’s journey into surveying began with a bold transition from archaeology, where gender diversity was more balanced. She quickly realised the stark contrast in the surveying industry. “When I joined Survey Solutions in 2016, I was the only woman in the Norwich office,” she recalls. “For many months, I worked on a large construction site where I was the only woman on site.”

Sandrine’s career hasn’t been without challenges such as gender discrimination. Yet, she emphasises the importance of perseverance and the support of peers and managers who recognised her talents. “You also meet people who see your abilities, respect you, and support you,” she says. This encouragement alongside her skillset has helped her progress from Surveyor to Senior Surveyor and now Senior Trainer.

Today, Sandrine is passionate about inspiring more women to join the industry. Attending university and college talks, young women only make up 10% of the group. “Young women don’t see themselves in these roles so they don’t imagine they can do it!

But guess what, surveying is a great profession! No two days are the same, you get to travel, see and work different parts of the country, from urban environments to the countryside, from modern buildings to historic ones, each site presenting different challenges that can be overcome whatever the gender. Women can make great surveyors!”

As a member of the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) Women’s Forum and an examiner, Sandrine is actively working to close the gender gap. “Let’s make a change and promote women in surveying and construction!”

Erin – Trainee Utility Surveyor

Erin’s story is one of curiosity. When she joined Survey Solutions in April 2024, she had no prior experience in surveying. “I started as a Trainee Land Surveyor in the Ipswich office, and I loved every minute of learning,” she shares.

Erin’s willingness to embrace new challenges led her to transition to the Utilities team, where she now surveys and maps essential services like electric cables, gas pipes, and drainage channels. “Every day is different, with new challenges. At Survey Solutions, there’s no such thing as too many questions. Everyone wants to help you progress.” After 3 months in the Utilities team, she’s now independently going out on site to map and survey jobs.

For Erin, the supportive environment at Survey Solutions has been transformative. “The Ipswich team is the best I’ve ever worked with,” she says. “The progression, recognition, and lifelong friends I’ve made have made it easy for me to be myself and grow within the company.”

Her message to women considering a career in surveying is clear: “If you’re thinking about working at Survey Solutions, it’s a brilliant choice. For me, it’s been the best career move I’ve made.”

Neli: Surveyor

Neli’s experience at Survey Solutions highlights the importance of a positive work environment. “I was a bit worried about being the only woman in the office, but everyone has been so helpful and supportive,” she shares.

For Neli, the key to her job satisfaction lies in the perfect blend of professionalism and camaraderie. “So far, I’d say it’s a perfect work environment, with great attitudes, and good communication.” Her story is a reminder that inclusivity and support can make all the difference in helping women thrive in male-dominated industries.

The stories of Sandrine, Erin, and Neli are just a few examples of the incredible contributions women are making in surveying. At Survey Solutions, we’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed and grow.

This International Women’s Day, we invite women everywhere to consider a career in surveying. Whether you’re drawn to the technical challenges, or the opportunity to work in diverse environments, surveying offers a fulfilling and dynamic career path. We believe we can break barriers and create a space where women in surveying are not the exception, but a norm.

If you’re ready to take the first step, we’d love to hear from you. Visit our careers page to learn more about opportunities at Survey Solutions and join us in building a more inclusive future.

Happy International Women’s Day!