What name are you known by and why (nickname)?

My name is Adryellen Almeida, and I am known as Adry.

Tell us about your role and how you became interested in engineering.

I am the Senior Continuous Improvement Analyst at Weir Minerals in São Paulo, Brazil. My interest in engineering was sparked during my first job in an industrial operation where I realised how many opportunities there are to use engineering to add greater value to products and services and enhance customer satisfaction.

What’s the most exciting/innovative project you’ve worked on?

The most interesting project I’ve worked on was the implementation of a production management system called 42Q. It uses software to monitor production in real time so that improvement opportunities and gaps can be identified and addressed immediately. There is also no need for paper printouts of drawings, procedures, controls and so on, so there is a sustainability benefit too.

What would you say to other young people who may be considering a career in engineering?

Set goals, study and dedicate yourself. Be flexible and resilient. Strive to be recognised and admired for your competence in your activities. There are no limits for women with excellent results.

What makes you feel that you can be yourself and belong at Weir?

The company’s values align with my own and that makes me feel that I belong. We live our values of respect for people, diversity, and inclusion in the way we do things as part of our routine. Seeing that the company's values align with mine makes me feel that I belong to Weir.

How do you see your future career?

I will continue to play a significant role as an engineer, contributing to problem-solving, suggesting improvements and exploring new resources and technologies for the success of our business and society.

Sustainability is at the heart of what we do at Weir. Why is it important to you?

Sustainability matters to me. Preserving the environment and natural resources is important for our personal wellbeing and means our families enjoy a better quality of life. We can only achieve this through the ethical commitment and social responsibility of everyone.

What is your greatest achievement/most exciting thing you’ve done outside of work?

One of my greatest achievements is overcoming my fear of depths. I enjoy exploring marine life and have experiences numerous unforgettable dives - the most spectacular one was in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil. The beauty of marine life is simply breathtaking, with vibrant colours, incredible creatures and complex ecosystems that reveal the diversity and delicacy of the underwater world. But beyond their magnificent beauty, I am reminded with every dive why it is so important to preserve the oceans and their rich biodiversity.