Rose Wise: "People are starting to see diversity as a real strength"
Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Iran before moving to Australia later in life. My early years were shaped by a strong focus on education and family values, which instilled in me a sense of responsibility and determination.
My dad, a civil engineer, was a huge influence. He encouraged, empowered, and supported me to pursue engineering as a woman, which wasn’t very common in Iran where women didn’t always have a strong voice in the engineering industry. That foundation gave me both the confidence and determination to follow this path, and it helped me later when I committed to engineering, a career that requires persistence, resilience, and discipline.
What attracted you to engineering?
I’ve always been curious about how things work and how structures are put together. As a student, I was fascinated by buildings, bridges, and later, infrastructure. The idea of designing something that has a real impact on people’s lives, whether it’s a school, a warehouse, or a renewable energy project, was what really drew me to engineering. It was the perfect balance of creativity, problem-solving, and technical challenge.
What were the biggest challenges for you when studying at university?
The greatest challenge I faced was managing the intense study demands with limited support. Structural engineering is a very demanding field, and at times it felt overwhelming, particularly in a male-dominated environment. However, those experiences strengthened my resilience. I learned the importance of asking questions, seeking guidance from mentors, and, most importantly, trusting my own ability to find solutions.
Your LinkedIn page shows that you have done a variety of structural projects, from tunnels and multi-story buildings to telecomms infrastructure, and now a range of renewable energy projects. Do you have a favourite work area?
I’ve genuinely enjoyed working across all the different sectors, but renewable energy projects have become my favourite area. What excites me most is that they combine technical complexity with a strong sense of purpose. It’s not just about solving engineering problems; it’s about knowing that my work is contributing to sustainability and shaping a better future for the next generations. Designing solar farms, substations, and battery storage systems is technically demanding, as each project brings unique structural and coordination challenges. But at the same time, it’s incredibly rewarding, because it connects directly to the global energy transition. There’s a real satisfaction in knowing that the structures I design are part of something much bigger, helping communities move toward cleaner, more reliable energy.
You’re a woman engineer in an industry that hasn’t always been very inclusive. Over the years, where have you seen improvements in attitudes and inclusiveness?
I’ve definitely seen progress over the years. These days, more companies are not only hiring women in engineering, but also offering real support through mentoring, leadership pathways, and flexible work options. I’ve also noticed a cultural shift. People are starting to see diversity as a real strength. When I first started out, it often felt like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. Now, there’s much more awareness and effort being put into building inclusive teams, which makes a big difference.
Are there areas that you think still need improvement?
Yes. While representation is improving, there’s still a lack of women in senior technical and leadership roles. Many young women enter engineering, but the industry hasn’t always done enough to retain them long term. Better support around career progression, work-life balance, and recognition of contributions is still needed.
What advice would you give a girl wanting to be an engineer?
I have two daughters, aged 14 and 10, and I often think about what advice I would give them. I tell them to always stay curious, ask questions, and never be afraid to step into technical fields. Engineering is about problem-solving, teamwork, and making a positive impact. These things aren’t defined by gender. I also encourage them to seek mentors, work hard, and trust in their own abilities. Most importantly, I tell them to enjoy the journey, because while engineering has its challenges, it is incredibly rewarding and offers many opportunities to make a real difference.
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