International Women in Engineering Day is an opportunity to recognize the women whose knowledge, leadership and determination continue to shape the engineering industry.
Across ENTRUST, women contribute to the essential work of designing, strengthening and modernizing the infrastructure that communities depend on every day. They bring valuable perspectives to technical challenges, lead teams and projects, advocate for safer and more inclusive workplaces and help create opportunities for those following in their footsteps.
While every career path is different, the experiences of women throughout the industry are often connected by common themes: perseverance, growth, representation and the confidence to make their voices heard.
To recognize International Women in Engineering Day, several women from across ENTRUST shared their experiences and reflected on what being a woman in the industry means to them. Their stories offer a glimpse into the many different journeys, contributions and perspectives represented throughout our organization.
Making an impact in engineering is not limited to technical work. It can also mean recognizing barriers and taking action to create a better environment for others.
When Erin Pohlman joined her first investor-owned utility in 2019, she was the first and only female engineer in her division. She used that experience as motivation to help improve the workplace for other women.
At a previous company, Erin founded a Women’s Flame Resistant Clothing Committee to help ensure women had access to properly fitting safety gear and the resources needed to perform their jobs safely and effectively. Her work reflects the importance of advocating for practical changes that allow more people to succeed.
“I have helped elevate women’s voices, remove barriers and make the path easier for the next generation of women engineers.”
For Erin, engineering is not only about solving complex problems. It is also about building environments where people feel supported, represented and equipped to do their best work.
Women in engineering may sometimes find themselves working in spaces where they are underrepresented. Learning to speak with confidence, contribute ideas and raise concerns can become an important part of their professional growth.
Paige Fink began her career in the electric distribution industry through a data entry position in 2019. Her curiosity and desire to learn soon opened the door to engineering design work and experience with multiple systems, clients and projects across the country.
Today, Paige serves as a Design Supervisor and can proudly say she has designed utility poles in every time zone in the United States. Her career has shown her that progress does not always follow a straight path and that growth comes from continuing to learn through every challenge.
“Being a woman in a heavily male-dominated field has taught me that my voice is a superpower, and I should never be afraid to use it.”
Paige’s experience is a reminder that every perspective has value. By sharing ideas, asking questions and speaking up, women throughout the industry are helping shape stronger teams and better solutions.
There is no single path into engineering. Some women discover an interest in the field early, while others find their way through unexpected opportunities, changing goals or new areas of study.
Dajanique Hatch first became interested in engineering after taking an AutoCAD class as a high school freshman. She began pursuing civil engineering before facing challenges that ultimately led her to change her degree to manufacturing engineering.
Her career later brought her into the electric utility industry, where she designed for Indiana Michigan Power before joining ENTRUST and beginning work supporting American Electric Power Ohio. Through each stage of her journey, she continued developing her skills and growing in areas that once challenged her.
“It gets tough before it gets easier, but don’t give up. Keep pushing, stay strong and trust that your hard work will pay off.”
Dajanique’s story reflects the perseverance demonstrated by so many women in engineering. Progress may take time, but continued effort, curiosity and confidence can lead to opportunities that once felt out of reach.
The experiences shared by Erin, Paige and Dajanique are individual stories, but they represent only a small part of the talent, leadership and impact of women across ENTRUST.
Women throughout our organization serve in engineering, design, technical, operational and leadership roles. Their contributions help improve safety, solve complex infrastructure challenges, support clients and strengthen the communities our work serves.
They also help move the industry forward by mentoring colleagues, encouraging new ideas, challenging assumptions and showing future generations of women that there is a place for them in engineering.
International Women in Engineering Day is an opportunity to celebrate these contributions while also recognizing the importance of continuing to create an industry where women have the resources, opportunities and support they need to thrive.
At ENTRUST, we are proud to recognize the women who bring their expertise, determination and unique perspectives to our work every day. Their voices and contributions are helping build the future of engineering.
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