Background and industry experience
Molly joined MEC in June 2026 as a Graduate Geo-Environmental Engineer. She did an undergraduate degree in environmental geoscience University of Bristol) and then a master’s in GIS (University of Leicester). This is Molly’s first job within her degree field; she had an accounting job between her undergraduate and master’s degree.
About me
What is your favourite holiday destination?
I would love to go to Japan for the food and do an overnight train. I would basically love to do an overnight train in any country!
What is your favourite film?
I couldn’t pick an overall favourite film but the film I have enjoyed the most recently is Sinners!
What is your favourite thing to do at the weekend?
At the weekends I enjoy playing rugby against other local teams – (the official name for the position I play is hooker).
If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
My one meal would be a burrito – love the mix of pulled-pork, salsa, guac, black beans and rice all in a portable wrap!
Women in Engineering
Tell us a little about your role.
As a Graduate Geo-environmental engineer, I use desk studies and intrusive ground investigation to assess potential contaminants and determine if any remediation is needed. I also assess the suitability of the ground for the planned construction and whether any further steps are required to make it suitable.
What first inspired you to do engineering?
I got into an environmental role because I think it is very important to have a balance between reducing our impact on the environment while meeting infrastructure needs such as housing.
How do you feel about being a woman in your field of engineering?
I feel proud to be in a field that is not historically known for employing women.
What’s been the most challenging part about being a female engineer so far?
I have been very fortunate to work with a team that is highly supportive, and I haven’t experienced any challenges that another graduate wouldn’t, such as imposter syndrome. However, the thought that to some people I might be a representation for all women in engineering not just myself does add to the stress of being good at the job in case they paint all women with the brush of my mistakes.
Have your views on gender changed in the workplace since entering engineering?
I always believed that for a team or company to be successful, it needs diversity and people with different lived experiences, as this is how you get new and innovative ideas. This has been reinforced since starting work.
Would you encourage other women to consider roles in engineering?
Definitely. Engineering is a field for anyone with a passion.
What’s ahead for your career plans?
My next biggest career plan is to become a chartered environmentalist.
Contact: molly.gribbon@m-ec.co.uk