International Women in Engineering Day: Meet Shawna Hannam

When Shawna Hannam started her engineering apprenticeship at Bristol Royal Infirmary at just 16 years old, she didn’t know where the journey would take her.

Nine years later, she is now CMSL’s Lead Engineer for Bristol.

To mark International Women in Engineering Day, we caught up with Shawna to learn more about her career, what she enjoys most about engineering, and the advice she would give to others considering a similar path.

Shawna’s interest in engineering began during a visit with Plymouth University, where she was introduced to mechanical engineering within the Royal Navy. The experience sparked an interest that would soon become a career.

She went on to complete an apprenticeship at Bristol Royal Infirmary, spending four years maintaining and supporting building services across the hospital estate. Her hard work and dedication saw her complete the apprenticeship ahead of schedule and earn Apprentice of the Year.

After gaining further experience with another M&E contractor for four years, Shawna joined CMSL in September 2025.

Less than a year later, she was promoted to Lead Engineer for Bristol.

For Shawna, one of the biggest attractions of engineering is the variety that comes with the role.

“No job is the same. One job could be electrical and the next could be plumbing. You don’t know what job can come through next.”

Today, her role involves everything from planned maintenance and reactive plumbing works to supporting engineers across the wider team.

When asked what she enjoys most about her job, the answer was simple.

“Problem solving and every day is different. I also love the team I work with, providing great support and even better banter.”

Like many people working in engineering, Shawna has faced challenges along the way. At times she found herself as the only female within the team, particularly during the early stages of her apprenticeship.

Looking back, she credits the support of the engineers around her for helping her develop and build confidence in the industry.

“I was very lucky with the engineers who taught me. They were very supportive.”

In a full-circle moment, Shawna now works alongside Chris Denford, one of the lead engineers who helped train her as an apprentice five years ago.

Outside of work, Shawna’s competitive spirit continues. She plays semi-professional football for Swindon Town Women and recently helped the team win their league title. During the summer months, she also plays cricket.

When asked what advice she would give to other women considering a career in engineering, her response was clear.

“100% go for it. It can be challenging at times, but the benefits are rewarding. Be strong, be independent, back yourself and be confident.”

At CMSL, we’re proud to support people like Shawna as they continue to develop their careers and inspire the next generation of engineers.

Happy International Women in Engineering Day, and congratulations to Shawna on everything she has achieved so far.