Sarah Cauldwell is a Senior Planner at Arup and volunteers for the Women in Transport West Midlands Hub.
I volunteer for the West Midlands committee speaking at and arranging events on behalf of Women in Transport. I have found being involved with the organisation very rewarding as it has provided me with great networking opportunities, allowing me to meet like-minded people across the industry. I find the organisation to be very friendly and inclusive.
I am a Senior Planner working for Arup in Birmingham and my team leader is very supportive of the work I do for Women in Transport, because he can see the value that it brings. I am also the lead for our People Movement business in the West Midlands and I sit on the Transport Planning Society (TPS) panel for the Bus, Rail and Freight Group.
I have always felt passionate about designing spaces for people, not cars, so my interest in sustainable travel is what first led me to the industry. I then became a transport planner after studying for a MSc in Transport Planning and Engineering at Southampton University.
I have since worked on all types of transport planning projects, from Business Case development for National Highways to station design for HS2 and Network Rail and stadia design for the Sydney Cricket Ground. I have worked on projects across the UK, Middle East and Asia and have also been on a 2-year secondment to Arup’s Sydney office, Australia.
For those considering to join or new to the industry, I think my experience shows that every day is different and there are lots of opportunities out there for women in the industry.
I am also a mother to 3 young children, so at times I do find juggling work and my home life a challenge. However, a lot of my colleagues are in the same position, so most people are supportive and understanding. I have found working part-time has allowed me to continue pursuing a career, while also having the time to keep on top of things at home.
I look forward to continuing to be involved with Women in Transport and to represent the organisation at future events.
To find out more about the WiT West Midlands Hub please visit - West Midlands Regional Hub | Women in Transport or please contact - westmidlands@womenintransport.com.
Follow Women in Transport on social media and share your story using #WIT20Years.