Roma Agrawal

Structural Engineer

Roma describes her journey from stickle bricks to the top of The Shard, and inspires you to get engineering with everyday objects.

I took an unusual route into engineering. I enjoyed maths and science in school, although I found some bits harder than others! I knew that I wanted to do something scientific but I didn’t know exactly what, so I studied Physics at university to keep my options open.

My mum and dad played a big role in developing my career interests. We played with Lego and construction blocks all the time. I loved assembling the small pieces to create something large and meaningful. Now my job allows me to do that everyday! I was part of the team that designed and built The Shard in London, the tallest skyscraper in western Europe.

I didn’t realize how much teamwork there would be in engineering. Everything is teamwork – putting together a building or a bridge is not something anyone can do alone. I’m always working with people from different backgrounds, which is exciting and fun.

Studying maths and physics is important in becoming an engineer, but you don’t have to be a genius at those subjects. Being an engineer combines many skills. I am very organized, and good at communicating in meetings. I love sketching and doing presentations too.

My work makes a big difference in a city’s landscape. My work on The Shard will have a lasting impact on London’s skyline. I’ve also designed over 500 flats in London, much needed as there is a housing crisis in the capital.

You don’t have to aim to change the world in order to change the world! Think about all the times in everyday life you say ‘Why can’t we do this?’ or ‘I wish it was easier to do this’. Engineers bring real change by trying to solve these problems.