People News

From one generation to the next.

Zarna joined our firm as a graduate on the Initial Professional Development scheme and is now a Senior Associate. Since 2010, she has worked as a mentor for the next generation of engineers.

I got into engineering because…

I was interested in maths and physics but wasn’t keen on undertaking a pure degree in either subject. So, I did some research into careers that would utilise both. This led me to engineering – a vast subject! To narrow down the options, I attended a one-week insight seminar at Brunel University. It gave me an understanding of the different types of engineering degrees Brunel offered and, of these, electrical engineering really caught my attention.

I did a summer placement at Hoare Lea…

…and haven’t looked back. Since joining, I‘ve worked on various projects: new builds, refurbishments, and extensions – spanning offices, university labs, hotels, data centres, schools, colleges, and residential developments.

When I am not working…

I love everything from travelling to simply watching films with my family, or finding the time to read inspiring articles and stories. I’ve also just taken up running, so I’m currently enjoying this new-found love.

I am a passionate mentor…

…and I always aim to bring out the best in people. I’ve been mentoring postgraduate students from Brunel for the past four years, and have been a mentor for our firm’s London office since 2010. Further to this, I am now a Senior Mentor for the London office and I’m also a Professional Review Interviewer for the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), which involves interviewing candidates that apply for IEng and CEng at the IET. This gives me insight into the interviewing process by the IET which I then feedback into the firm’s training scheme.

I am really excited by…

…innovative new technologies that are greener and improve our quality of life. However, I’m aware new innovations often create new problems! So I like to explore these issues and find solutions that will have a lasting effect on the next generation and make a real impact.