As we celebrate Women in Construction Week 2025, we put the spotlight on two of our colleagues who are making strides in the fire and construction industry. 

Fire safety engineer Geena Varghese and compartmentation surveyor Michela Titchener describe how they chose their careers, the challenges they have faced and advice to anyone trying to get into the industry.  

Why did you choose a career in the fire and construction industry? 

Geena Varghese – Fire safety engineer

For Geena, a passion for engineering and architecture made fire engineering a natural career choice.

Geena said: “I’ve always been intrigued by engineering and architecture, so it felt like a natural route to study engineering at university. I’ve been in the construction industry since 2009, completing my bachelor’s in civil engineering in 2013. I then joined Fire Consultancy Specialists (FCS) in December 2024.” 

For Michela, the path was less conventional but equally rewarding, as she explained: “I was living in France, skiing and working in construction because there weren’t many other job options. I got qualified there, set up a renovation company and later brought that experience back to the UK about nine years ago. My work in fire consultancy naturally evolved from there as fire safety became a major industry focus.” 

What qualifications did you need? 

While both professionals have extensive experience, their educational journeys differ.  

Geena said: “I earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and later completed a master’s in fire engineering at Ulster University.” 

Michela explained her unique journey: “Much of my expertise comes from hands-on training and learning on the job, particularly in fire protection and building regulations. I trained in England for the job I do now.” 

What does your day-to-day job involve? 

Michela Titchener – Compartmentation surveyor

Michela enjoys steering a project from the start to completion. “I’d start in an advisory consultancy role at the beginning of a construction project, then go in to check the compliance once the work starts, generating a report and completing further inspections. I act as an additional set of eyes that provides a safety blanket.” 

Geena added: “It’s good to go on site and develop a good understanding of the work that is needed before you prepare a detailed strategy. It is a responsible role and you must ensure everything is completed correctly to the rules and regulations in place.”

Are more women choosing roles in fire and construction? 

Despite progress, both Geena and Michela agree that the construction sector remains predominantly male.  

Geena said: “I saw a lot of women on my university course, which was great, but the industry itself is still very male-dominated. However, women can do the job just as well as men. We are natural multi-taskers.” 

Michela agreed: “I don’t think it’s a natural progression for many women. I had to prove myself a little more, as people can often doubt a woman’s understanding of buildings and construction.” 

Have you faced any challenges as a woman in construction? 

Navigating a male-dominated field comes with its challenges, from proving technical expertise to keeping up with evolving regulations. 

Michela said: “Fire regulations are constantly changing, so you’re always learning. Just yesterday, I found out about a brand-new testing method, so learning is never complete in this industry.” 

What are the highlights of your career? 

For Michela, leading and developing an entire fire safety division was a major accomplishment. “I built the entire division from scratch – getting our third-party accreditation, developing internal processes, implementing software and training the team. It was a pretty mean feat and great experience.” 

What advice would you give young people considering a similar career? 

With a potential skill shortage in the construction industry, the next generation of workers are incredibly important and the advice from Michela and Geena recognises this.  

Michela said: “You have to start from the bottom and work your way up. Gaining a full understanding of construction will help you to progress naturally. I think students should be encouraged to choose careers like this.”

Geena advised: “If you have the determination to do so, then you can achieve anything in life. You can do it.” 

Why is Women in Construction week important? 

Women in Construction Week is a chance to recognise and support women’s contributions to the industry. Geena explained: “It’s an opportunity to highlight women’s achievements and inspire more young women to consider careers in construction.” 

What is Women in Construction Week? 

Women in Construction Week 2025 takes place March 2-8 and celebrates the vital role of women in the industry. This year’s theme, ‘together we rise’, emphasises collaboration, education and community-building through events, workshops and networking opportunities. 

The history of Women in Construction week 

Established by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), Women in Construction Week was founded in 1953 by a group of 16 women determined to support each other in the industry. Today, NAWIC has over 4,000 members. 

The future of Women in Construction 

With increasing awareness and initiatives like Women in Construction Week, the industry is gradually shifting towards inclusivity. However, continued advocacy and education are necessary to ensure women have equal opportunities in construction and fire safety.