February 11 marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day dedicated to celebrating the contributions of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It’s also a time to reflect on the importance of creating opportunities for women in these fields. Refiloe, Head of Commercial at Babcock, is a shining example of how investing in women can drive progress in engineering.
From Engineer to Head of Commercial
Refiloe’s journey into engineering began with a vision—to one day be part of the Babcock team. Today, she has not only achieved that dream but has also played a pivotal role in transforming the company’s commercial operations.
“As a black professional in a male-dominated field, my journey has been extraordinary. Many people underestimate the role of quantity surveyors, often limiting it to the building industry. However, we are contract and risk specialists across all sectors. Through proper contract administration and meticulous claims management, we ensure that projects run efficiently and profitably,” she explains.
Her leadership at Babcock has resulted in the establishment of a structured commercial department, significantly improving the company’s approach to contract enforcement and profitability.
Investing in Women: A Game-Changer for Engineering
Babcock’s commitment to empowering women is evident in its policies and initiatives. Refiloe highlights two key strategies:
- Workplace Flexibility – Offering remote work options and adjustable hours makes a significant difference for professional women balancing multiple responsibilities.
- Education and Development – Funding higher education for women fosters innovation and ensures they stay ahead with the latest skills and knowledge.
These initiatives not only support women in their careers but also contribute to a more dynamic and competitive industry.
How Women Accelerate Progress in Engineering
Refiloe believes that investing in women isn’t just about representation—it’s about unlocking untapped potential to drive progress. She outlines three key ways in which gender diversity strengthens the industry:
- Innovative Thinking – Women bring unique perspectives that spark creativity and fresh problem-solving approaches.
- Bridging the Skills Gap – Encouraging women to enter and remain in engineering helps address industry-wide shortages.
- Stronger Decision-Making – Gender-diverse teams lead to better decision-making and improved financial performance.
“Diversity isn’t a checkbox. It’s the secret sauce for teams that solve problems faster, smarter, and with a smile,” Refiloe says.
Advice for Future Women Leaders in Engineering
Refiloe’s journey has been shaped by perseverance, advocacy, and strong leadership. Her message to aspiring women in engineering is clear:
- Stay true to yourself – Your perspective is valuable—don’t be afraid to use your voice.
- Embrace challenges – Every obstacle is a chance for growth and progress.
- Build a strong network – Surround yourself with mentors and supporters.
- Advocate for equity – Push for diversity and inclusion to create lasting change.
- Lead with integrity – Make an impact through ethical and courageous leadership.
Shaping the Future of Engineering
One of Refiloe’s most significant achievements at Babcock has been the creation of the company’s commercial department, ensuring that contractual entitlements are maximized and operations run smoothly. Her work is a testament to the power of strategic leadership and the importance of recognizing the contributions of women in engineering.
As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Refiloe’s journey serves as an inspiration. Investing in women in STEM isn’t just about fairness—it’s about creating a smarter, more efficient, and more innovative industry for everyone.
