• Can you introduce yourself?

   

I’m Dr. Sharmin Sultana, currently working as a Process and Quality Engineer at Transdev Ireland. With an academic background in Mechanical Engineering, my career has followed a cross-sectoral journey through the semiconductor, medical device, and now public transport industries. I hold a PhD and bring over nine years of combined academic and industry experience, with a focus on project management, quality management systems, and applied research.  

 

• Can you tell us a bit about your role at Transdev and what a typical day looks like for you?

   

At Transdev, I work within the Maintenance Performance department and my role sits at the intersection of quality, compliance, and process improvement, where I focus on developing, implementing, and continuously refining maintenance processes and quality systems across Fleet, Infrastructure, and Facilities.

 A typical day is dynamic and collaborative. I might be working on internal or external audits, updating process documentation in our Business Management System (BMS), or leading root cause investigations using tools like 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone diagram or FMEA. I regularly analyze audit KPIs, track non-conformances, and work closely with teams across Maintenance, Engineering, Procurement, and Safety to identify improvement opportunities.

 My work is also heavily aligned with maintaining compliance with key standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001. I support continuous improvement projects across depots to help optimize safety, reliability, and cost-efficiency.

 In essence, my role ensures that our maintenance operations are safe, efficient, auditable, and continuously improving—and I love that it blends technical problem-solving with cross-functional teamwork.

 

• What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?

   

I’ve always been curious about how things work and naturally drawn to problem-solving. From an early age, I enjoyed maths and science, and I was inspired by the idea that engineering could transform those interests into practical, real-world solutions.

My academic journey—from Bangladesh to South Korea, and then Belgium—started with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, followed by master’s in manufacturing technology and PhD in Engineering Physics. Through which, I developed strong expertise in applied science and technology, working on topics ranging from plasma physics and optics to sustainable materials and process design. My transition into industry was driven by a desire to see the tangible results of my work and to contribute directly to society.

What motivates me today is the opportunity to use engineering to make a real difference—whether it’s enhancing the safety and efficiency of public transport systems or driving improvements that positively impact people’s daily lives. For me, engineering is the perfect blend of curiosity, creativity, and purpose.

 

• How did you get started in the rail or transport industry specifically?

   

My entry into the transport industry was driven by a growing interest in sustainable infrastructure and public service. After gaining experience in highly regulated sectors like semiconductors and medical devices—where precision, compliance, and process improvement are critical—I was drawn to the idea of applying those skills in a sector that directly impacts people’s daily lives.

Joining Transdev felt like a natural progression. Public transport plays a vital role in urban mobility, and I was inspired by the company’s focus on safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement. The opportunity to work on systems that are not only technically complex but also socially meaningful made the transition both exciting and rewarding. It’s been a fulfilling experience to contribute to making transport safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.

 

• Have you faced any particular challenges being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field?

   

Yes, one challenge that often goes unspoken is the limited consideration for women in manual handling tasks. Many tools, equipment, and processes are still designed with a one-size-fits-all approach, which doesn’t always account for physical differences. This can make certain tasks more difficult—or even unsafe—for women.

Beyond that, there are broader challenges many women in engineering encounter, such as unconscious bias, underrepresentation, limited access to mentorship, and the ongoing effort to balance demanding work schedules with personal responsibilities—especially in roles that require long hours or travel.

However, I’ve also been fortunate to work with supportive colleagues and mentors who have encouraged my growth and helped create an inclusive environment. Over time, I’ve learned to view these challenges as opportunities to break stereotypes, lead by example, and advocate for more equitable and inclusive practices in engineering. Staying confident, continuing to learn, and speaking up with conviction have been key in navigating this journey.

 

• How do you think the industry has changed for women over the years?

   

The industry has definitely become more aware of the importance of diversity and inclusion. We’re seeing more women enter and succeed in engineering roles, and companies are putting greater emphasis on supporting their development through mentorship programs, flexible work policies, and initiatives aimed at gender inclusion.

While there’s still progress to be made—especially in achieving equal representation at leadership levels—the momentum is positive, and the ongoing conversations around diversity are encouraging signs for the future.

• What do you enjoy most about working with Transdev?

   

What I enjoy most about my role is the diversity and tangible impact of the work, particularly in driving process improvement and quality assurance. Every day brings new challenges—whether it’s conducting root cause analyses for quality issues, revising processes to optimize performance, enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs and time, or improve safety, or leading cross-departmental audits to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.

Knowing that my efforts directly contribute to the safe and efficient transport of thousands of people every day makes my work incredibly rewarding. Being part of an organization that prioritizes safety, accessibility, and community well-being adds a deeper sense of purpose and fulfilment to my role.

In addition, Transdev supports a healthy work-life balance through flexible hybrid working arrangements, which allows me to stay productive while also managing personal commitments. I’m also fortunate to work with supportive managers and inspiring mentors who provide guidance, encourage growth, and genuinely value my contributions—making it a positive and empowering environment to thrive in.

 

• Is there a project you’re particularly proud to have been involved in?

   

One project I’m particularly proud of is the Lean Green Belt Project. It was a significant milestone for me personally, as it allowed me to apply Lean principles to improve processes and achieve measurable results. This project helped me grow my skills and make a real impact, hitting many of my personal and professional goals along the way.

 

• What advice would you give to young girls or women considering a career in engineering?

   

Engineering is a vast and dynamic field that welcomes all kinds of skills, personalities, and perspectives. If you’re curious, enjoy problem-solving, and want to make a real-world impact, it’s a fantastic career choice.

Engineering is more than about machines or equations—it’s about creativity, collaboration, and real-world impact. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes, and keep learning. Believe in your potential and take up space. Your unique ideas, creativity, and problem-solving skills are exactly what this field needs. Stay curious, stay resilient, and surround yourself with those who support your growth.

Don’t let stereotypes hold you back. I’ve worked across different industries—from research labs and medical devices to semiconductors and public transport—and in every setting, my contributions have mattered. Yours will too.

 

 

• What would you say is the most rewarding part of being an engineer?

   

For me, the most rewarding part of being an engineer is making a real-world impact. Whether it’s solving a technical issue, improving a process, or leading a quality initiative, I find great satisfaction in knowing that my work enhances safety, efficiency, and user experience. Every improvement—no matter how small—contributes to something bigger, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that what I do has a direct, positive effect on people’s lives.

 

• What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about your job?

   

One thing people might be surprised to learn about my job is that it’s not just technical. While data analysis and process design are important, a large part of my role involves communication, collaboration, and change management. Whether it’s training teams, facilitating audits, presenting improvement plans, or aligning different departments, soft skills are just as essential as technical expertise. Engineering is as much about working with people as it is about solving problems.

 

• What’s the most “non-engineering” part of your personality or hobbies?

   

I’m a passionate gardener! I love spending time outdoors, nurturing plants, and watching things grow. It’s therapeutic and the complete opposite of technical problem-solving, which makes it a perfect balance.

 

• Have you ever had a funny or unexpected moment on the job you’d be happy to share?

   

At our workplace, we have this great culture where people always hold the door for someone coming behind them. One day, I opened a door in the corridor, and someone on the other side suddenly popped out with a playful “peekaboo!” I was completely caught off guard—he must have thought his friend was coming! We both burst out laughing, and it turned into one of those unexpectedly funny moments that brightens your day.