I first discovered CIBSE YEN through a colleague at work, which led me to follow their LinkedIn page and attend a few events. When I saw the post about joining the committee, I hesitated because I didn’t think I had enough experience. At the time, I had only been in the industry for six months and didn’t really see myself as a building services engineer since I had just graduated from studying Civil Engineering to master’s level.
After some procrastination, I decided to take the leap and joined the CIBSE YEN London committee as a Communications Assistant Officer. I had always wanted to create content and shape the way we present the engineering environment to aspiring engineers, but especially young women. Representation is a driving force behind my involvement because it encourages others to believe they can succeed when they see someone like them doing it too.
As one of only two female engineers in my office, I wanted to broaden my network and build my own little community of female engineer friends.
Later, I joined the STEM Outreach group, a smaller subdivision of YEN London. I have always known I wanted to do this because I registered as a STEM Ambassador just three months into my graduate scheme. That early decision came from a passion to reach out to the younger generation and inspire future engineers. Since then, the outreach group has delivered two successful events and engaged with universities to raise awareness of CIBSE.
A highlight of my journey so far was being a finalist for CIBSE ASHRAE Graduate of the Year alongside fellow YEN London member Molly. I felt extremely proud to see so many YEN London figures on the night, with Zoe and Ikechukwu as panellists. It showed the strength of our community.
People often assume YEN London is all about socials, but it goes far beyond that. Yes, we love bringing people together at events like the YEN Gala and seasonal socials, but our core mission is professional growth and representation. We have delivered impactful initiatives such as Career Conversations, INWED celebrations, and EDI-focused events, alongside STEM outreach and university engagement. These activities are not just networking; they are about empowering young engineers to think differently, ask questions, and take ownership of their careers.
YEN London is a vibrant committee of nearly 20 passionate members, and I am proud to have grown alongside it. Together, we have launched initiatives that truly reflect who we are, from technical talks to social events, and created spaces where young engineers feel supported and inspired.
I would love to venture into mentoring, speak on a panel, and one day chair the London region, as well as become a chartered engineer. Our current chair, Zoe, is someone I truly look up to. She is inspiring, accomplished, and a great role model. YEN gives us a strong platform to make our voices heard, and I am proud to be part of a network that is helping shape the next generation of building services professionals.
Joining the CIBSE YEN committee has been one of the best decisions I have made in my early career. It has helped me build connections, grow as a professional, and feel more involved in the future of the industry. I have learned so much already, and I am excited to continue working with the committee to support other young engineers as they find their way in the field.
If you are considering getting involved, take the leap. You will not regret it. Whether you want to build your network, develop new skills, or make a real impact in the industry, YEN is the perfect place to start. Your voice matters, and together we can shape the future of building services.