Caitlin Briggs is a Process Engineer at adi Projects, working in the Food and Beverage sector. She joined adi Group as a graduate two years ago after completing a Master’s in Sustainable Chemical Engineering. Growing up with a love for science, she was inspired by great teachers and family members in engineering. Since starting at adi, she has worked on a variety of projects, gaining hands-on experience and tackling new challenges. In this interview, she shares what she enjoys about her role, the importance of diversity in engineering, and her advice for young women considering a career in the field.

What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?
I’ve always been drawn to the sciences, thanks to the encouragement of some amazing teachers who pushed us all equally, regardless of gender. Growing up, I had several engineers in my family - my dad and uncle were both engineers. Interestingly, I initially wanted to study physics but discovered chemical engineering while researching courses. It seemed like the perfect mix of my interests in science and sustainability.

What do you enjoy most about being an engineer?
There’s so much to love about this career. At adi, I work with an amazing team, and everyone is incredibly supportive. Beyond that, I enjoy the variety - no two days are the same. I’ve had the chance to see what goes on behind the scenes of how products reach the shelves, and it’s fascinating. I also love the problem-solving aspect of engineering and knowing that every project I work on has to consider its environmental impact.

What does a typical day look like for you?
It really depends on the project. Some days are documentation-heavy, while others involve hands-on work like trialling valve and interlock systems or visiting sites. I recently spent 12 weeks in Loughborough working on installations and have been travelling to Peterborough for site visits over the past three months. It can sometimes mean a lot of time away from home, but that’s part of the adventure.

Can you tell us about your favourite project so far?
One of my favourite projects has been the installation of a new chocolate tank for Premier Foods in Morton. It was such an interesting experience to see how everything works behind the scenes and to be a part of the process that brings products to life on supermarket shelves.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in engineering, and how have you overcome them?

Thankfully, most people I’ve worked with have been supportive and respectful, but there have been moments where I’ve felt like I needed to prove myself a little more. Sometimes, it’s not just about gender but also about age - being younger in the industry can make it feel like you need to work harder to gain trust and respect. When those moments arise, I focus on my work, knowing that my skills and contributions speak for themselves.

At adi, I’ve always felt welcomed and encouraged, which has been a huge confidence booster. Having a supportive team and positive role models around me has made all the difference. I’ve also learned to stand my ground and approach every situation with professionalism and confidence, which often helps dissolve any biases or doubts. Engineering, like any industry, is evolving, and I’m happy to see more women joining and thriving in the field.

Why do you think it’s important to have more women in engineering?
Diversity brings different perspectives, and that’s crucial for solving complex problems. Since I started, I’ve noticed more women entering the field, which is fantastic. It’s not as intimidating as some might think - engineering is a welcoming environment where everyone works together toward common goals.

What skills or subjects helped you succeed in engineering?
Confidence has been key for me. It’s something I’ve developed over time by stepping out of my comfort zone and learning from those around me. Watching how others interact, and lead has been invaluable. Having a solid foundation in sciences like physics and chemistry has also been crucial, along with my passion for sustainability, which influences everything I do.

Why do you enjoy being an engineer at adi?
The team at adi is amazing - everyone is supportive and approachable. Beyond that, I love the variety and challenge of the work. It’s noisy, busy, and constantly changing, which keeps things exciting.

What advice would you give to girls considering a career in engineering?
Do it! Engineering is an incredibly rewarding career where you’ll never run out of challenges to tackle or problems to solve. There’s always demand for engineers, and you’ll be part of something impactful. My advice? Be confident - even if you have to “fake it till you make it.” Confidence grows with experience, and it makes a big difference in how you’re perceived and respected in the field.