Victoria Walker

Tell us what the Mott Mac Life means to you in three words

Development, opportunity, people.

What do you enjoy about working here?

The people. My immediate team and the wider network are supportive, friendly and collaborative.

What is your specialism, and why did you choose it?

Growing up, I loved the TV show Grand Designs, which showed the creative possibilities of engineering. After watching some construction work to improve my own home, I was inspired to study for an integrated master’s in civil and structural engineering at the University of Leeds. I chose to specialise in dams and reservoirs as I have a strong interest in mathematics, physics and the environment and I want to contribute to the next generation of reservoirs in the UK.

How has your career progressed since joining?

I have developed all aspects of myself, especially my confidence. I am well on my way to becoming a chartered civil engineer with the Institute of Civil Engineering.

What have you learnt while working at Mott MacDonald?

I have gained a stronger understanding of engineering principles and their application across the full project lifecycle, including design, construction and operation, and I’m still learning every day. I have developed my ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams, including with designers, contractors and stakeholders.

What are your career highlights and achievements?

I worked on a local flood storage reservoir from the construction phase during my placement year through to completion as a graduate engineer. I updated construction drawings and 3D models as the work progressed, visited the site regularly and worked with site personnel to make sure the final as-built information captured changes accurately.

On a personal level, a highlight was achieving an internal Making a Difference Award. This was for creating a team culture where people feel able to speak to everyone at all levels of seniority, organising monthly team socials and mentoring college students through Arkwright Engineering Scholarships.

How do you contribute to Mott MacDonald making a difference to people and the planet?

I’m proud to work on projects that reduce flooding and provide lasting benefits for communities and the environment. Outside of my professional role, I’m also the Mott Matters Leeds office connector, bringing colleagues together to organise and support local events such as litter picking and raising money for various charities.

Are you involved in any additional initiatives at Mott MacDonald, aside from your day-to-day role?

I’m very active in the Early Career Professionals (ECP) network at Mott MacDonald and also play a key role in co-ordinating activities for the dams and reservoirs team and for the Leeds office in general. As the global dams submarket ECP lead, I support young professionals in my discipline and I’ve developed content for our global website. I’ve had the opportunity to host British Dam Society events in the Leeds office and organise team socials to strengthen collaboration across all levels. I’m also the Leeds co-lead for the water and environment unit, embedding culture, organising events and supporting the health, safety and wellbeing of my colleagues.