Women in Infrastructure: Besa Ajvazi Selimi, Civil Engineer, UNOPS Pristina Office

Who do you picture when you think of a civil engineer? Did you picture a woman in the profession? Research shows that women are a minority in the civil engineering workforce. In this article, to celebrate our #WomeninInfrastructure, we’re exploring the work of female engineers and contributors to our infrastructure — women who helped change our cityscapes and the infrastructure environment at large with their contributions. Throughout history, these women have faced challenges in their field. But that didn't stop them from designing and building schools, hospitals, and incorporating gender-friendly design elements into our infrastructure.

In this article, we'll hear from Besa about her experiences and the current state of women in civil engineering. A pioneer in her field, Besa holds the distinction of being the first female Kosovar Chartered Engineer and member of the UK's Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Since 2016, she has brought her expertise to UNOPS Pristina, where she currently oversees the technical aspects of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMNS) construction, ensuring the project adheres to design specifications. Besa's impressive background is further bolstered by a Master of Arts in Law and Management of Real Estate and Infrastructure, solidifying her knowledge and capabilities within the built environment.

“Entering the infrastructure sector as a woman has not been without its hurdles. Unconscious bias was a significant challenge, with assumptions often made about my capabilities based on gender rather than merit. The lack of mentorship opportunities was another barrier; finding female role models and mentors in a predominantly male industry was difficult. Additionally, the physical work environment often lacked the necessary accommodations for women, which could be discouraging.

My journey as a site engineer over the past eight years with UNOPS has been a testament to the evolving landscape of gender equality in the infrastructure industry. When I first started, basic amenities on site like separate female toilets were nonexistent. However, these conditions have improved significantly over the years, thanks to persistent advocacy and a growing recognition of the need for gender-sensitive infrastructure. Despite these challenges, I persevered, driven by the belief that my presence and contributions were crucial for fostering a more inclusive work environment.

Over the years, I've witnessed a remarkable transformation. Contractors, especially those who have worked with us for a long time, have developed a different mindset.

One specific example of positive outcomes from having more women on the team is one of the  major infrastructure projects of the Pristina office “Construction of Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences' ' being implemented in the last two years. The inclusion of female engineers led to more thoughtful design considerations, such as ensuring better accessibility and safety features that catered to all users. This collaborative approach not only improved the project's quality but also enhanced the overall working environment, fostering mutual respect and teamwork.

UNOPS has been incredibly supportive and flexible in fostering my career development, particularly during my pregnancy. They provided flexible working arrangements, ensuring a smooth balance between my personal and professional life. This supportive environment allowed me to focus on my health and family without compromising my career growth. Additionally, UNOPS facilitated my continuous professional development, enabling me to complete the ICE training scheme and achieve certification. This commitment to both my personal well-being and professional advancement has been instrumental in my growth as an infrastructure professional.

To level the playing field, the infrastructure sector needs to take several steps. First, promoting gender diversity through targeted recruitment and retention strategies is crucial. Offer mentorship programs and create networks for women to support each other. Moreover, improving work environment conditions, such as providing adequate facilities and flexible work arrangements, can make the industry more attractive to women. Lastly, raising awareness and training about unconscious bias can help create a more inclusive culture where women feel valued and respected.

In conclusion, the journey towards gender equality in the infrastructure sector is ongoing, but the progress made over the past eight years with UNOPS gives me hope. By continuing to advocate for and implement these changes, we can create an industry where women not only participate but thrive.”

The article was co-written by 

Ramona Lupu Communications Specialist 

UNOPS Austria Multi-Country Office: Austria, Albania, Kosovo, Central Asia, South Caucasus,Türkiye