Meet Martyna...
Ahead of International Women’s Day and Women in Construction Week, we’re proud to spotlight the talented women helping to shape the future of our industry. Fire and security engineering has traditionally been a male dominated field, but that landscape is changing and professionals like Martyna are part of that progress.
Nearly five years into her career, she reflects on her journey into engineering, overcoming anxiety, building confidence on site and the importance of mentorship, support and belonging in the workplace.
Can you tell us a bit about your role at TP Fire & Security and what a typical day looks like?
I work as a multi-skilled fire and security engineer at TP Fire & Security. My day-to-day role is really varied. I carry out servicing and minor works across different fire alarms, intruder CCTV and door access systems.
Throughout the day I will also respond to callouts, where I’m fault finding and carrying out repairs to make sure the systems are working safely and reliably.
What first attracted you to a career in fire and security engineering?
My journey in this industry started through the study of electrical installations in college. This has opened the doors to different fields including fire and security. I did thirty hours of work experience in my last year of college with a small fire and security company, that’s when I realised how well it suited me and how much I enjoyed the work in this field.
How long have you been working in the industry and what’s kept you motivated?
I’ve been working in this industry for nearly five years. Seeing my own confidence and skills grow over time has been a big motivator for me, especially in a hands-on engineering role where you’re constantly learning.
Engineering is still a male dominated field. What inspired you to pursue this path?
With my background in electrical installations, engineering felt like a natural progression. It’s a role where I can apply what I’ve learned in a practical way while continuing to build my skills.
Did you have any role models or influences who encouraged you into engineering?
Yes, during my work experience I met an engineer who was my inspiration. He pushed me to get a job in this industry, and I worked closely with him over the years. He always had my back and supported me, especially at times when I doubted myself. We no longer work together but I still look up to him as my role model. The impact he had on my confidence and development in this industry will stay with me for the rest of my life. I will always be grateful that he took me under his wing, I don’t think I would be where I am today if it wasn’t for him.
What was the biggest challenge you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome it?
Throughout my career I really struggled with anxiety, especially in the early days. Being a woman in a field like this made me feel like I stuck out like a sore thumb when all I always wanted was to just blend in. Over time, I learned to focus on my work, trust my skills and build my confidence. This has really helped me overcome the anxiety. I still have bad days but it’s all part of a journey.
What has your experience been like as a woman working in fire and security engineering?
When I first started, I felt very aware of being one of the only women on site, and with my anxiety at the time, that was tough. I often felt like I had to prove myself more than other engineers who were at the same level as me. Over time, I realised I deserved to be there just as much as anyone else.
Have you seen positive changes in the industry since you started?
Yes, I have. When I first started, I rarely saw other women on site, but now I’m noticing more coming into the industry, which is really encouraging. I’ve also felt a shift in attitudes — people are more open, not just colleagues but also customers, they are now more aware of the importance of inclusion. It’s not perfect yet, but it feels like progress.
What do you think businesses can do better to encourage more women into technical roles?
From my own experience, having someone who believed in me and encouraged me made a huge difference, especially when I doubted myself. I think businesses could do more to provide that kind of mentorship and visible support for women starting out. It’s not just about recruitment but it’s about building confidence and creating a safe space to learn.
What skills do you think are most important for success in your role?
Technical knowledge is important, but for me, confidence and resilience have been key. Trusting my skills, staying calm under pressure, and communicating clearly with clients make all the difference.
Has working as an engineer changed how confident you feel in other areas of your life?
Before I started, I couldn’t even strike up a conversation with a stranger. Now I lead discussions with clients and colleagues confidently — it’s completely changed how I see myself and behave around others.
What’s a moment at work that made you feel particularly proud?
I can’t pinpoint a single moment, but I feel proud in those times when I look back and realise how much I’ve grown. Yesterday I couldn’t have fixed a problem on site, and today I can. That progress and sense of achievement is what really makes me proud.
What do you enjoy most about working at TP Fire & Security?
I really enjoy being part of a team where people genuinely support each other and share their knowledge. It’s that encouragement and sense of belonging that’s made a difference in my career, and I have found it at TP Fire & Security.
How does the company support you in your role and professional development?
TP Fire & Security has given me opportunities to learn, take on new challenges, and grow in my role. Their support has made me more confident and motivated to push myself further.
What makes TP Fire & Security a good place for women to build long-term careers?
The level of support you receive everyday from everyone around you, starting with managers and the HR department through to helpdesk and fellow engineers. They all want to see you succeed and end each day on a positive note.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in engineering or fire and security?
Believe in your skills, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and remember you belong here just as much as anyone else.
If you could go back and speak to your younger self, what would you say?
I would just tell myself about how far I have come and to trust myself. I wouldn’t encourage my younger self to change anything about the journey I’ve had, every mistake was a lesson that has made me into the person that I am today.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you personally?
International Women’s Day is a reminder of the strength and resilience of women, especially in industries where we’re still underrepresented, like trades and engineering. For me, it’s also personal — seeing the determination and hard work of my mother growing up showed me what women are capable of, and it has inspired me to push boundaries in my own career to make her proud.
At TP Fire & Security, we are committed to supporting talent, championing diversity and building long term careers in fire and security engineering. If you are considering a career in the industry, or would like to learn more about joining our growing team, get in touch with us today and discover how you can build your future with TP Fire & Security.
