Emma Hinch is a senior engineer at Black & White Engineering. Based in Dublin, she has five years of experience in building services and mechanical engineering, and brings a versatile skillset to Black & White’s new Dublin office following the recent acquisition of Homan O’Brien.

Her background spans mechanical system design and on-site project management across healthcare, data centres, industrial and commercial sectors. With a strong focus on sustainability and performance, Hinch is passionate about creating high-impact engineering solutions.

Emma Hinch.

1) At what stage of your life did you start to think about becoming an engineer?

Engineering has always been part of the backdrop of my life. My dad managed large-scale projects, and I grew up seeing how much pride he took in his work. My brother is also in the industry, so construction and engineering were always discussed at home – it felt familiar.

I think the decision to pursue it professionally was gradual rather than a single lightbulb moment. I wanted a career that was challenging, practical and had real-world impact, and engineering ticked every box.

The industry is constantly changing, and women in particular are coming into the field and mindsets are developing. Engineering is a great career choice and has so many opportunities to grow and flourish at each stage of your career.

2) What were the biggest influences on your decision to go into engineering?

There were a few key things. My family background definitely made it feel like an accessible option. I had already seen what a career in the industry looked like. But beyond that, I was drawn to the way engineering combines creativity with problem-solving.

3) How has your career path evolved since graduating?

I studied mechanical engineering at TU Dublin, then jumped straight into the deep end by joining a mechanical contractor. I spent four years on the contracting side, managing fast-paced building services projects across pharmaceutical, healthcare, commercial and office sectors. I was on-site, gaining hands-on experience and really understanding how systems work in real-world conditions.

During that time, I also completed a master’s in project management at UCD. I studied part time while working full time, which was a tough schedule but invaluable in terms of building confidence and learning how to lead.

After a few years, I transitioned to a more design-focused role which is what brought me to Black & White Engineering. Now I work more on the front end of project delivery, managing the design and integration of mechanical systems from concept to completion.

4) What challenges have you faced as a woman in engineering, and how have you handled them?

From the start of my studies, I have been in heavily male-dominated environments. In college, I was one of just two women in a class of 120. I have never felt judged on my capability but did feel pressure to prove I belonged in a space where women were rarely seen.

That pressure only intensified when I entered the workforce. In my previous company, again I was one of the very few women out of about 90 employees. Additionally, I was also the first woman that the design or site teams had ever worked with. That brought a different kind of challenge; it wasn’t just about earning respect but also navigating the hesitation or doubt that came before anybody even saw what I could do.

Over time, I have learnt to back myself. You reach a point where you realise your presence in the room has value and that you have earned your place. I have also been lucky to build a strong support network, including mentors – both men and women – who have advocated for me and helped me grow. There are still moments of hesitation from others when I join a new team, but I have learnt to let my work speak for itself.

I have also been fortunate to meet people, male and female, who genuinely support inclusion and who challenge those outdated perceptions. But there is still work to do and that is why I continue to speak up and support others facing similar challenges.

5) How has mentorship or a support network helped shape your career?

Mentorship has been essential. I would not be where I am now without the people who gave me encouragement and honest advice along the way. Through CIBSE, WIBSE and Engineers Ireland, I have connected with mentors who have helped me navigate difficult moments and celebrate progress.

That is why I make a point of supporting others now, whether it is grabbing a coffee with somebody starting out, giving career advice to students or speaking at events. Sometimes, just having somebody say ‘I’ve been there’ can make all the difference.

6) What inspires you most about your role as an engineer?

For me, it is knowing the work I do has a lasting, practical impact. Engineering is about creating environments that function well, meet safety standards and support the people who use them.

There is also satisfaction in the variety – no two days are the same. One week I might be deep in design specs, the next on-site troubleshooting or collaborating with architects and contractors. It keeps things dynamic and constantly developing.

7) How has your experience at Black & White Engineering supported your development?

My journey with Black & White Engineering began through the acquisition of Homan O’Brien, where I had been working as a senior engineer. It is still early days under the Black & White banner, but the transition has already shown how committed the company is to supporting its people.

What has impressed me most is how proactive they’ve been in reaching out to employees across the organisation, listening to our experiences and asking how they can better support us. That level of engagement doesn’t feel like a tick-box exercise – it is thoughtful and it shows in the culture.

There is a clear emphasis on professional development and creating a workplace where people feel valued – how we collaborate, communicate and build long-term relationships, internally and with clients. That balance of technical excellence and 'people-first' culture is something I really value.

8) What role has CPD played in your career?

CPD is more than just continued study or industry networking. Continuous professional development enables engineers to stay at the forefront of new technologies, keeping us aware, engaged, and passionate about what we do. It also supports our journey towards chartership and stepping into roles where we take ownership of our designs and proudly stand behind the work we do every day.

It has also helped me reflect on why I entered the engineering field in the first place, that original sense of inspiration and purpose. CPD encourages continuous improvement and lifelong learning about the industry, what it offers, and the people who help shape it.

9) What advice would you give to young women considering a career in engineering?

First, do not be put off by how things look from the outside. Yes, engineering has been male dominated but that is changing. There is space for you and the industry needs your voice. Do not wait to be invited, take up space and let your work speak for you.

Second, find a support network early. Whether it is through student societies, professional bodies or mentors in your workplace, having people in your corner makes a huge difference. And don’t be afraid to ask questions – curiosity is a strength, not a weakness.

Finally, know your worth. Engineering is a brilliant career path that lets you contribute to society in meaningful ways. The challenges are real but so are the rewards.

10) What changes would you like to see in the engineering field for women over the next five to 10 years?

I would like to see more women in senior leadership roles – project directors, board members, decision-makers. Representation matters. It sends a message that women not only belong in engineering but can shape its future.

I would also love to see continued investment in mentoring and structured support, especially for women in the early stages of their careers. And more flexible pathways into engineering, whether through apprenticeships, cross-training or return-to-work programmes. We can’t afford to lose talented people due to rigid structures.

Ultimately, I want to see a culture where women are no longer the exception in the room, but a natural and expected presence – shaping projects, policies, and the next generation of engineers.