Shaping Tomorrow: Women in Engineering at Dorsch Global

| Insights

At Dorsch Global, we believe that innovation thrives when diverse minds come together. To celebrate International Women in Engineering Day, we asked women from across our global organisation to share what inspired them to become engineers, their favourite projects and their advice for future generations. Their responses demonstrate the passion and influence that women bring to the field of engineering worldwide.

“Diversity fuels engineering that matters. With talents from more than 95 countries, we’re proud to see women from all organisational levels shaping infrastructure and community projects that make a difference – every single day,” says Tanja Baur, Dorsch Global COO.

To celebrate International Women in Engineering Day, we wanted to highlight the voices behind these achievements. We asked colleagues from across our global teams:

  1. What inspired you to become an engineer?
  2. What was your favourite project so far, and why?
  3. What message would you like to give to girls and women who want to become engineers?

The responses come from women in a variety of roles, regions and career stages. Their words demonstrate a passion for engineering and a commitment to making a real impact on projects and empowering others. They also serve as a reminder that diverse experiences can inspire future changemakers.

See what three of our Dorsch Impact engineers answered to these questions, and learn more about female engineers in the Dorsch Global world here.

Civil Engineer and Managing Director

Frauke Goldmann

What inspired you to become an engineer?

My decision to pursue civil engineering was shaped by a deep curiosity about how infrastructure functions and a desire to contribute to a meaningful, lasting impact. My passion for math and science gave me the tools to approach challenges logically, but it was the creative process of designing and building that truly captured my interest. This inspired me to focus not just on engineering itself, but on how it can support international development. I’m motivated by the opportunity to create sustainable, resilient infrastructure that empowers communities and supports long-term growth and equity.

What was your favourite project so far and why?

One of my favourite projects so far has been the development of marketplaces in Malawi. This project was particularly meaningful to me because it highlighted the powerful intersection of civil engineering, economic development, and community empowerment. The goal was to improve market infrastructure in rural areas, focusing on creating better business environments for farmers and local entrepreneurs. What made this project stand out for me was the direct and visible impact of infrastructure on livelihoods. We weren't just building markets, we were enabling access to better income opportunities, improving local economies, and fostering long-term sustainability through training on operation and maintenance.

What is your message to girls and women who want to become engineers?

There is no limit to what women can achieve in the field of Engineering. Engineering is about solving problems that shape societies, and we need the insights, creativity, and leadership of women at every level.
Your ideas are valuable, your voice is necessary, and your presence is powerful. Seek out challenges, create impact, and know that you have a place in this profession – and a responsibility to open doors for others.

Deputy Head of the Water and Sanitation Department

Sofia AlHmoud

What inspired you to become an engineer?

I’ve always been drawn to how things work, from systems to structures, and I wanted to be part of shaping practical solutions that make a real difference. I never imagined I’d end up in this exact field of engineering, but I chose it because it's a pressing issue in Jordan and across the region. Water and wastewater infrastructure is not only essential – it’s urgent. I chose this path knowing it would be impactful and that the demand for expertise in this area will only continue to grow.

What was your favourite project so far and why?

The IWSP2 Programme in Upper Egypt has been the most rewarding and enriching experience so far. The scale and complexity of the programme, spanning multiple governorates, stakeholders, and disciplines, make it both challenging and beautiful. It’s not just about infrastructure. It’s about people. Being part of a project that directly improves essential services for communities, while also working closely with diverse teams and being exposed to different local cultures, has made it incredibly fulfilling on both a professional and personal level.

What is your message to girls and women who want to become engineers?

You absolutely belong in this field. Don’t wait to be invited or feel like you need to fit a certain mould – your perspective is valuable, and your presence changes the landscape for the better. Be curious, and don’t be discouraged by challenges; they’re part of the journey.

Senior Programme Manager for the School Construction Programme

Salam Najjar

What inspired you to become an engineer?

I was always interested in the quality of spaces. Buildings kept a strong impression on me, I always had an opinion or feeling about buildings, rooms, and spaces in general. Their functionality, aesthetics and comfort levels were things I often thought about. I guess I have always known I would be in engineering, and when the time came, I chose Architectural Engineering.

What was your favourite project so far and why?

My absolute favourite project is my ongoing one. As part of the School Construction Programme, we are designing and overseeing the supervision works of 18 schools. The project is funded by the European Union and the German Government through KfW Development Bank, dedicated to improving the educational situation in the Jordanian cities most affected by the Syrian refugee crisis. In addition to this, our programme includes complementary measures mostly dedicated to Capacity Building. I love being part of the project since Day 1, when we conducted the needs assessments, until now that some schools are already operating, interacting with students and teachers, finding out how the new schools have changed their lives, improved their outlook on education, and made them more likely to stay in school until graduation. These interactions make the efforts worthwhile. It’s been almost 5 years since we started, and I would say the results are extremely rewarding.

What is your message to girls and women who want to become engineers?

Go for it! By all means. Engineering needs diverse voices, perspectives, and talents to tackle the world’s biggest challenges. Never underestimate your potential or let stereotypes hold you back. Stay curious, ask questions, and believe in yourself. Your ideas and passion can truly change the world.

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Municipal Infrastructure

Companies

Related Projects

Improved Water and Wastewater Services Programme

Dorsch Impact GmbH
Governorates Sharkia, Gharbia, Damietta and Beheira, EG

School Construction Programme

Dorsch Impact GmbH
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