My Stantec Story: Lucy Ashen’s journey from summer placement to senior civil engineer
December 10, 2025
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Lucy shares how she built her career with our Leeds’ Water team, mentoring others and winning NCE Graduate of the Year along the way
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In the My Stantec Story series, our designers, engineers, marketers, project managers, and leaders come together to share how their career journeys at Stantec have shaped their lives and moved them closer to their goals.
What attracted you to a career at Stantec?
I first joined Stantec on a summer placement in 2018 while I was studying at university. At the time, I hadn’t heard of Stantec, but the placement was local, water-focused, and sounded genuinely interesting. I immediately loved the people and saw real potential in the work. I returned as a graduate and have stayed ever since!
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy working with great people and solving real-world problems. I love that my work helps protect rivers and improve the environment. It feels like I’m genuinely making a difference—not just doing a job but helping to better the planet and the communities around us.
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How has your personal and professional development been supported at Stantec?
I’ve gained experience across a wide variety of projects, frameworks, and teams within the water sector. It’s felt like having several careers at one company. I’ve grown technically, taken on mentoring responsibilities, and recently stepped into a line management role, all with strong support from business leaders.
A standout moment for me was being named New Civil Engineer (NCE) Graduate of the Year in 2021. It was a huge milestone early in my career and led to the opportunity to join the NCE’s editorial advisory board from 2022–2024.
What has been the standout project for you during your time at Stantec?
Two projects stand out. Endeavour Wharf was a defining early-career moment. I was thrown in at the deep end but learned so much alongside experienced technical leads. More recently, it’s Ilkley Sewage Treatment Works, where we’re designing a wetland as part of the bathing water project, has given me a major leadership step-up. It’s been one of my most rewarding projects.
" }I love that my work helps protect rivers and improve the environment. It feels like I’m genuinely making a difference—not just doing a job but helping to better the planet and the communities around us.
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What are your ambitions for your future at Stantec?
My immediate focus is achieving chartership with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)—something I’m working hard towards with great support. After that, I’d like to explore new roles, perhaps taking on a project technical lead position. There’s so much opportunity here to shape your own path.
What are your passions outside of work?
I love travelling, home renovation, and interior design. I try to get away skiing every other year and enjoy running, cycling, and the occasional yoga session. And I have two rescue cats who absolutely rule the house.
Why should others join the Stantec team?
The people are brilliant—experienced, supportive, and genuinely great to work with. There are lots of exciting projects and huge opportunities to grow. I’ve also been part of the Developing Professionals Group (DPG), first as the Leeds office DPG lead and then moving up to a DPG lead for the North of England. Experiences like that really add to your career story and boost your confidence.
At Stantec, our people are at the core of everything we do. For Lucy, that means turning her passion for protecting rivers and the environment into meaningful water solutions.
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