Today we’d like to introduce you to Irene McSweeney.
Irene, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was seven years old when a 100-year flood occurred in my home town in Allegany, New York. The town had ~6000 residents, so we knew almost everyone by face. The town was divided when all of the bridges that connected the town were damaged or removed by the flood waters. At that point, I decided that I wanted to be an engineer to either better design bridges that could withstand the forces from a flood or to reduce the impact of floods. I worked very hard at school and graduated first in my class. In the early 1980’s, no one encouraged females to be engineers. I secretly applied to Wentworth Institute of Technology and was accepted. My parents were surprised when I got in and wondered how! They knew though, that I really wanted to do this. Once again though, I was not welcomed by all of my class mates and was told on day one, “we’ll give her a few weeks and she’ll find a new major.” Well, once again, that motivated me and graduated first in the institute with my degree in Civil Engineering. I went to work for Allen & Major Associates, where I had done three coops. It was good because there were two other female engineers.
In 1991, I decided to make another change and work more closely in the construction field, my preference. As a Project Engineer for BWSC, I was responsible for the daily oversight of five construction projects and the associated staff. Rumors were that I would be gone in six months! Well, 26 years later, I am now Director of Construction, overseeing a staff of 40 personnel, managing 55-60 million dollars annually as well as the infrastructure improvements citywide for major developments. I love every minute and the challenges that complex utility projects in one of the oldest cities brings.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being a female, good in math and science was not an easy career path, guidance counselors wanted you to become a teacher, parents didn’t want you to confront the male conflict. Being the only female in many situations at times was lonely. Expectations and comments were higher and severe, to challenge you in to moving on.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Boston Water and Sewer Commission – what should we know?
I am proud that I can now mentor young engineers that have the same desire and passion that I have for construction. I bring a perspective of inclusion, not based upon gender, race or religion. I am well known for being responsive to construction conflicts and coming up with a resolution to keep jobs moving. I am proud of helping others and mentoring the young engineers.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Dedication, hard work and professionalism.
Contact Info:
- Address: 980 Harrison Avenue
Boston, MA 02119 - Website: bwsc.org
- Phone: 617-989-7447
- Email: mcsweeneyif@bwsc.org
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