Article written by: Alana Bowmar, Service Leader – Civil and Water Engineering, Wellington
My path to engineering wasn’t a straight line. I initially set out to earn a Bachelor of Science, majoring in mathematics, never expecting to land in civil and environmental engineering. That changed when I took an environmental science paper that touched on low-impact stormwater design.
I realised I was disillusioned with the abstract nature of a pure mathematics degree and was drawn to applying science and maths to real-world challenges – particularly those that enhance the environment. Motivated by this new purpose, I took an introductory physics paper, pivoted my studies, and ultimately graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil and Environmental Engineering, focusing on three waters and geotechnical engineering.
Since then, I have dedicated myself to meaningful work, from wastewater management to stormwater treatment and water quality improvements across Aotearoa. I have over a decade of consulting experience, developing expertise in three waters infrastructure, with a particular focus on wastewater discharges and the beneficial reuse of wastewater solids. I see real value in this work – it aligns with cultural expectations of waste management, promotes a circular economy, and redefines what is traditionally considered ‘waste’ as a resource, providing organic matter and nutrients that would otherwise come from mined or synthetic fertilisers.
In 2024, I was drawn to an opening as Service Leader – Civil and Water Engineering at Vitruvius. The opportunity to have greater control and direction over my career really appealed to me. Needless to say, I got the job, and I can honestly say I now play a much more active role in shaping the pipeline of work, developing the delivery team, and taking ownership of client relationships. The company’s commitment to quality delivery and collaboration resonates deeply with me, and it’s a privilege to work alongside such motivated and talented professionals.
My days are filled with client and project communications, phone calls, meetings, and emails, but the most fulfilling moments come when I can dive into an engineering problem, conduct site research, run calculations, and see solutions emerge through modelling and analysis.
Every time I send out a deliverable that I am proud of, I get a sense of achievement. And when my professional relationships strengthen – when I become the first person someone calls with a work problem – that’s when I know I’m making an impact.
Looking ahead, I want to continue working on fulfilling projects at Vitruvius while building a team of like-minded individuals who share my passion for environmental stewardship.
Outside of work, I embrace activities that nurture different sides of me including cycling, running, hiking, social netball, baking sourdough, and experimenting with vegan recipes. In recent years, I have come to appreciate the joy of pottering around the house – reading, cooking, and spending time with my partner, family, and friends. These moments are just as important as the work I do.
My journey proves that careers don’t always follow a set path, and changing direction can lead to greater fulfilment.
For anyone considering this field, my advice is to stay curious, follow your interests, and seek out work that aligns with your values. For me, that means working on projects that reduce environmental contaminants and promote sustainable water management—helping to protect Aotearoa’s natural ecosystems for future generations.
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