Jersey woman listed in top 50 female engineers

Rachel Hayden said an experience at secondary school had inspired her future career

A Jersey engineer has been listed one of the UK's top 50 women in engineering for 2025

The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) named Rachel Hayden as a role model for reaching more than 38,000 people through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) volunteering.

The former Jersey College for Girls student was recognised for her "outstanding contributions to the profession and her tireless work inspiring the next generation" in the list published by the Women's Engineering Society.

Ms Hayden, who works as a senior engineer at WSP, said an experience at secondary school had inspired her future career.

She said: "If it hadn't been for a pasta bridge competition run by engineers when I was 16, I might never have discovered civil engineering.

"That moment changed my life - and now I'm passionate about creating those moments for others."

'A real difference'

ICE said that since Ms Hayden had become a STEM Ambassador in 2017, she had volunteered more than 715 hours and delivered 285 activities.

Ms Hayden said it was "a huge honour" to be recognised on the list.

"I hope it shows young people in Jersey and beyond that engineering is not only for everyone - it's a career where you can make a real difference."