Müge Karasahin
Sustainability and ESG Partner at Ethos
Aisling O’Connor
Project Engineer (Mechanical)
Engineering project manager Aisling O’Connor and sustainability and ESG partner Müge Karasahin share how they got started and the joy they get from seeing their work have tangible impacts on society.
Aisling O’Connor, Engineer
O’Connor initially hesitated to pursue engineering, but seeing female engineers removed her doubts.
How did you get into engineering?
I always enjoyed maths and physics, but realised I preferred practical, experiment-based learning rather than pure theory, which led me to engineering. I had reservations about becoming a female engineer, but those disappeared during my internship at Ethos.
In school, engineering was just lectures and coursework. At Ethos, I saw how those principles influence buildings people use daily, which helped me understand the impact engineers can have.
Why are programmes like TY outreach and STEPS important?
These programmes give students real exposure to engineering. TY students can shadow teams and see engineering roles, and STEPS helps introduce younger children to engineering.
Many students don’t realise the opportunities engineering offers. These programmes help bridge that gap by giving them a chance to meet engineers, ask questions and see what a STEM career can look like.
Why do role models matter for young women considering STEM?
When young women meet female engineers, they can picture themselves in those roles. Seeing women in engineering helps turn STEM from an idea into a possibility.
Müge Karasahin, Sustainability and ESG Partner
Sustainability offers a dynamic career. Advances in technology, climate research and environmental standards create new learning opportunities.
Contributing to long-term positive change is incredibly rewarding
What drew you into sustainability and ESG-focused work?
I’m originally from Türkiye and studied architecture. During my studies, I was already conscious of the environmental impact buildings can have, from material use to land development. Sustainability became a natural focus throughout my studies and career, and ESG has been a natural progression from this.
How has sustainability changed the infrastructure and built environment sector, and what opportunities are developing?
As the science develops, sustainability is reshaping how buildings are designed, operated and delivered. Climate risk, ESG and sustainability goals are impacting every stage of design, creating opportunities for people from diverse educational and professional backgrounds.
Why is sustainability work within STEM rarely limited to a single discipline, and how does this shape projects?
Every discipline brings a different perspective. Architects may focus on healthy materials, structural engineers on embodied carbon, electrical engineers on energy efficiency and civil engineers on water management.
Sustainability consultants help coordinate these areas. It’s a highly collaborative environment where different expertise is essential, connected by an interest in solving complex problems and the heart to care about the impact of building decisions.
How do climate studies, ESG priorities and changing regulations influence decision-making?
Six years ago, many sustainability standards were optional. Today, new rules and regulations mean sustainability is becoming much bigger in how buildings and infrastructure are designed and developed. As countries work towards climate goals, expectations continue to grow, and the standards are becoming more demanding.
New research around carbon management, transport systems, climate impact and human wellbeing continues to shape the industry, which keeps the work both interesting and fulfilling.
What would you say to students who feel they don’t have a “traditional” STEM background?
Coming from architecture, I’m a perfect example of a non-traditional STEM background. The key is being adaptable, open to learning and willing to approach problems with a creative growth mindset.
Architecture gave me a strong foundation in systems thinking, design and environmental performance, which naturally led me into sustainability and ESG work.
Contributing to long-term positive change is incredibly rewarding, whether that’s reducing environmental impact or helping create healthier, more resilient spaces.
