On International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026, Equans Data Centers stands proudly with colleagues across the globe in spotlighting the remarkable contributions of female engineers. This year’s theme, "Engineering Intelligence," perfectly captures both the technical excellence and inclusive spirit that propel our industry forward.
Today, we hear from Yvonne Trigg, Document Controller at Equans Data Centers, whose twenty-year career journey within the engineering industry underscores the essential role women play in shaping the future of technology and infrastructure.
For those who may not know, what does a document controller do and why is it so important in engineering projects?
“We're the liaison between the client and the company. We do the submitting of all official documentation and drawings and keep a register of that. It’s almost like a one-stop shop... People look at the centre of a drawing, but I check the side with the document numbers, date, and revision. You have to make sure all that's correct.”
This year’s theme is Engineering Intelligence. What skills are essential to be successful in your role?
“You pick it up as you go along... But the real skill is being organised. I’m an organiser at work and outside work. We can all get it wrong. Sometimes it goes through three different people, and still the last person picks up what’s missing.”
Yvonne’s insights show how technical knowledge and a methodical mindset form the foundation for successful engineering projects.
As a woman working in the engineering industry, what obstacles have you faced?
“I had a problem dealing with men who did not like talking to women… I had to get a manager to intervene and say, ‘She’s talking on our behalf, she knows what she’s doing.’”
She recalls earlier days in air traffic control, an environment where she had to prove herself to skeptical colleagues, “You have to prove yourself to some people. And I proved that I was worthy when a male Senior Manager would come and sit and have a chat with me about non-work matters before we settled down to work.”
Despite the challenges, Yvonne never lost her drive to support, organise, and uplift those around her, “Document control is the backbone of a company. That’s probably always thought of as a woman’s job, not a man being an administrator… You have to build yourself up. Be helpful, show your potential, and you might move on to another type of role. You’re not going to have the experience until someone gives you a chance.”
Why celebrating International Women in Engineering Day matters
At Equans Data Centers, we champion initiatives like “Break the Code,” tackling algorithmic bias and promoting inclusivity for women in engineering roles. We believe in giving everyone a fair chance:
“Companies need to give us a chance. We can do everything… Celebrate it, promote it. Push ourselves forward.”
Words for the aspiring women in engineering
Yvonne’s closing message on INWED 2026 is as simple as it is powerful:
“ Just try it, go for it. If it’s a job you really want, go for it. You can only be told no! Then try to apply to other companies. Eventually you’ll find a company that really wants you. Give as good as you get. You might get knocked back a few times, but there are companies out there that would embrace you and give you a chance. ”
INWED 2026 reminds us that it’s vital to uplift women in engineering to unlock potential and build truly intelligent, diverse teams. Yvonne’s journey shows that with determination, skill, and support, women will continue to redefine what’s possible in engineering.
Learn more about how we champion women at Equans Data Centers by reading our Break the code and Future, not without her articles.
