It Takes a Village: The Importance of Community

By Caitlin Cavanagh, EIT, Water Resources Engineer & Director of WTS Philadelphia's Emerging Leaders Committee 

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As a young woman in engineering, the support of my friends, family, and peers has been critical to my success. Whether it was my all-girls grade school education fostering my love of math and science, my inspiring classmates at Villanova University, or collaborating with my peers at work or WTS, my communities have always been there for me as I am for them.

One group I am passionate about supporting is young professionals. As a former WTS Philadelphia’s Emerging Leaders program member, I am excited to return as Director for the 2023-2024 term. The group provides a forum for professional women to lean on one another in the early stages of their careers. These ladies can begin career-long relationships as they learn and develop together.

My passion for building supportive, inclusive environments continues at work. At AECOM, equity, diversity, and inclusion are embedded in our core values. I am proud to serve as Vice President of the Women’s Leadership Alliance, an Employee Resource Group. We provide opportunities for women and allies to network, build skills, and advocate for the potential of women leaders across the company. When we feel free to be ourselves and empowered to succeed, we all thrive.

Our lives are shaped by the communities in which we live and work. They can provide us with support, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging. As we advance women and other historically marginalized groups, we create an environment that celebrates diversity and reflects the communities we proudly serve.