Women looking to pursue drainage engineer roles often benefit from the support of a mentor in different ways. Mentoring in engineering roles can provide practical guidance, encouragement and access to workplace networks, giving women the tools they need to succeed and progress in their careers.

Increased chances of promotion

Women who work with a mentor are more likely to progress in their careers and achieve advancement opportunities sooner than those without such support. Research indicates that women supported by a mentor experience higher promotion rates, partly because they gain valuable insights into workplace culture, receive advice on career decisions and develop greater visibility among senior colleagues. This guidance and encouragement from experienced professionals can help them build the confidence and skills needed to move into more senior roles.

Higher self-confidence

Mentoring provides a safe and supportive environment where women can develop their skills and knowledge without fear of judgement or unnecessary pressure. Through regular guidance and constructive feedback, mentees are able to explore new ideas, practise their abilities and gain reassurance about their progress. This process often leads to stronger self-belief and greater confidence in their own abilities, enabling them to approach challenges and opportunities with assurance and a clearer sense of direction.

Flexible working hours

Many roles in engineering and drainage provide working patterns that support flexibility, such as four days on followed by four days off, or more traditional weekday schedules. Some positions also offer varied shift options, enabling employees to choose arrangements that fit their lifestyle. These options allow individuals to balance professional responsibilities with personal commitments, making the sector more accessible to a wider range of people and appealing to those seeking a stable yet adaptable career path.

Learning that suits all circumstances

Structured mentorship programmes give women the opportunity to build their skills at a pace that fits their individual circumstances, whether they are new to the industry or looking to advance an existing career. This flexibility means learning can be adapted around personal commitments and varying levels of knowledge. The approach is particularly valuable for those entering the sector with little prior experience, as it provides tailored guidance, steady development without pressure and the reassurance of having ongoing support as they grow into their role.

Stronger workplace relationships

Mentoring often helps women build deeper connections within their workplace, creating a sense of belonging and ongoing support that extends beyond day-to-day tasks. By developing these relationships, mentees can form trusted connections with colleagues and senior staff, making it easier to share knowledge and collaborate effectively. Those with access to mentoring are more likely to remain with their company for longer and to develop a stronger professional network, which in turn can open doors to new projects, partnerships and career opportunities.

More women in male-dominated fields

Mentoring can play a valuable role in increasing the number of women entering and progressing within industries such as driving, engineering and drainage, which have traditionally been dominated by men. By offering guidance, encouragement and a clear understanding of workplace expectations, mentors help women gain the confidence and skills needed to succeed in roles where female representation has historically been low. As a result, more women are choosing to pursue careers in these sectors, building long-term progression opportunities and contributing to a more balanced and diverse workforce that benefits from a wider range of perspectives and experiences.

If you’re a woman considering a career in the drainage industry, whether that involves engineering, driving or an office-based role, there are many reasons why finding a mentor can be a worthwhile step, helping you to develop the confidence and skills needed to progress and thrive in the sector.