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The following is a Q&A with Katherine Kile, a Staff Engineer in FPA’s Civil/Site Department. Katherine began her engineering career as an Intern at FPA, after graduating from the University of Delaware with a Degree in Civil Engineering. She was recently hired full-time at the firm, as a Staff Engineer.

Can you share your journey and what motivated you to become an engineer?
I decided to pursue a degree and career in civil engineering because I have a lot of adults in my life that are in the profession. Growing up, they always told me how much they enjoyed their careers. Hearing about what kind of work they do sparked my interest. I knew school would be tough, but the challenge motivated me to get my degree and I am glad I did it.

How have you seen the landscape change for women in engineering throughout your career?
I only graduated college one year ago, so I have not seen much change throughout my career. I really enjoyed my courses at school and my classmates. I graduated with about 60 other civil engineering majors in 2022 and if I had to guess, around 30-40% were women.  Since starting at FPA in February, I enjoy being able to work with and learn from the other women in my department that have been in the industry for a longer time and have years of experience.   

How can we encourage more girls and young women to pursue STEM fields, particularly engineering?
To young women that are considering a degree in engineering I would tell them to pursue their interests and encourage them to do it! Engineering has so many different careers to offer, you will be able to find something you really like to do.