Internal career journey: From engineering foundations to sustainable solutions
Sustainability is becoming a major priority in the construction sector, as advances in engineering and technology lay the path for innovative solutions that reduce environmental effects.
But how does an engineer transition into the field of sustainability? What does that journey look like in practice?
In this interview, Irina Nikitina, Staticus’ newly appointed Sustainability Engineer, discusses her internal career, from her early days in engineering to her current role promoting sustainable practices.
She discusses the obstacles she experienced, the lessons she gained, and how a combination of personal development and teamwork influenced her path to sustainability.
Hello, Irina. Tell us, what was it like when you first started at Staticus?
It all happened very naturally.
I had just finished my studies abroad in Building Technology, specialising in Façade Engineering. When I returned to Lithuania, I didn’t expect to find a job in this field. However, through a job search platform, the Staticus team reached out to me and welcomed me into their team.
At that time, the company was primarily Lithuanian, with a limited international presence. As my expertise and experience grew, I became involved in more intriguing projects. The company itself was also evolving and expanding.
Naturally, as Staticus grew, so did my ambition to develop professionally.
What was your initial role and how has your career developed since then?
I started as a Structural Engineer in 2015, working my way up from junior specialist to senior position.
I worked with 3D modelling and Revit, also performed calculations and later moved into the technical design department, which presented new challenges.
After nearly ten years, a fresh opportunity came up, and I realised it was the perfect fit. While my education concentrated on sustainable façade engineering, I struggled to put that knowledge into practice. When the opportunity was presented within Staticus, I was excited and eager to take on the task.
What makes Staticus a unique place to work?
I’d say it’s the people, the atmosphere, and how we work together.
Everyone is always willing to help; you can ask for advice at any time, and no one is afraid to ask questions. If you have doubts or concerns, there is always someone who can assist you or solve a problem. This, in my opinion, is one of Staticus’ most significant assets.
Another factor I admire is the company’s expansion – over the last decade, Staticus has evolved from a local business to a global player.
What excites you the most about your new role?
The fact is that it’s a new field with several unexplored opportunities.
While sustainability standards are tightening throughout Europe, there are still significant uncertainties and a lack of clarity. The most exciting part for me is understanding and interpreting these new directives, as well as establishing how our organisation will adapt and respond to market needs.
I am motivated to assist the company in refining its processes, navigating laws, and contributing to meaningful change.
I find it fascinating to investigate how much we, as a business and as professionals, can do. That is why I want to continue learning, studying, and getting deeper knowledge.
What opportunities do you envision for your role?
I’ve attempted to envision where I’ll be in ten or twenty years. With rising technologies, new talent, and increased competition, I concluded I didn’t want to spend my entire career working with technical drawings. But now I see a genuine opportunity for advancement and development, a chance to become an expert in what I do.
Sustainability, in my opinion, should no longer be a theoretical concept, but rather a pragmatic reality. I see promise in developing and introducing new, more sustainable materials that improve durability, efficiency, and reusability.
It is not enough to know what materials can be used; we must also educate colleagues and assist them in making informed judgments that balance cost, environmental impact, and longevity. I genuinely believe that we still don’t know everything and that new innovations could transform the way we design and build the spaces where we live and work.
How do cross-functional teams benefit your work?
Being capable of learning from specialists in various fields is crucial in helping me develop my own skills.
Laura Craft has taught me a lot, and she contributes not only significant expertise but also a unique perspective. We collaborate, talk, and share ideas.
We are now working on a variety of initiatives linked to material science and European carbon emission standards. These are global challenges that have a direct impact on our jobs.
We try to find a balance between creativity and technical execution; it’s not just about coming up with fresh ideas, but also determining whether they’re possible in real-world applications.
What personal aspirations do you have as you take on this new role?
One of my main goals is to expand the range of materials used in our projects. We intend to create and implement a list of alternative materials that we could offer to clients; materials that meet quality standards while also giving a competitive advantage for our company.
I also want to promote cross-functional collaboration, spark talks about why sustainability is important, and dispel the myth that it is a passing trend. Instead, I hope to show that true solutions exist and have a tangible impact on society.
In addition, I want to encourage suppliers to obtain relevant certifications and comply with sustainability requirements. Instead of always pushing for compliance, I’d like to see a transition in which providers proactively achieve these criteria.
Tell us a bit about your life outside of work.
Outside of work, I spend much of my time with family and in nature.
Hiking and swimming are my favourite activities because they allow me to relax without the strain of perfection. I also have a puppy, who is like my little oasis of tranquillity. Just playing with him relieves all my stress.
I’m not drawn to crowded social settings. For me, the most precious moments are spent with loved ones and travelling, both in Lithuania and abroad.