Women in Engineering Inspiring Positive Change: Nancy Kirui

Nancy Kirui is an electrical and electronics engineer graduate of Moi University. She currently works as a Rig maintenance engineer. She is a member of IEK and serves as a council member for IEK South Rift. Nancy is a wife and a mother of two.

 Q: Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?

A: I am a rig maintenance Engineer. My day to day activities involves monitoring of rig equipment, repair and servicing per schedule. Ensure availability of equipment to ensure smooth drilling operations. I also keep and update spare parts inventory system and avail maintenance plan for my rig.

Q: Did you always know that working in engineering was what you wanted to do? How did you decide to go into Electrical and electronics engineering? What inspired you?

A: Yes, and No. I had two options to pursue Nursing or do engineering. My dad convinced me to settle for engineering since I was good in physics, Computer and Math. Besides I loved coding back in high school that is why I settled for electronics.

Q: I don’t think it’s any secret that many women in STEM have felt their gender has affected the way that they are perceived and/or treated. Have you ever been in a situation like that? How did you handle it?

A: Yes. As a woman and a mother working in a male dominated field requires a lot of time off home and that really affects my concentration at work. Managing family work balance requires a lot of dedication and mental endurance. Not everyone is there to understand the challenges. Sometimes one has to sacrifice career for motherhood. I have learnt to accept that motherhood is a season and once the season ends I will bounce back to my career fulltime

Q: What is your take on the number of women in engineering? Why do you think that’s the case? What do you think can be done to change that?

A: The number of ladies graduating in engineering is relatively low. Perhaps more mentorship is required at high school level.

Q: How would you explain your Engineering field to young girls.

A: Engineering is solving society’s problems using invention to bring a positive impact to our communities.

Q: What message would you give to young girls to inspire them to pursue Engineering?

A: Go for it. YES you can.