Breaking the career ceiling

While for most eight-year-olds their Walkman cassette player breaking might mean asking their parents for a new one, for Dr Evona Teh it was the trigger to start examining technology and put her on the path to an illustrious career in engineering.

“For me, engineering has always been about solving problems and creating impact, and that’s what drives me every day,” said Evona, who went on to pursue an engineering degree at Imperial College London, followed by a PhD in human-machine intelligent systems.

Born and raised in Malaysia, Evona went on to earn two scholarships to study in the UK and chose to pursue a career in engineering.

Launching a successful career

After briefly working in Malaysia, Evona returned to the UK for her PhD. Following her graduation, she began her career with Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), which had sponsored her PhD.

“JLR has shown a growing commitment to diversity and inclusion, and I have experienced this firsthand, from engineering roles to strategy, where I co-founded the Strategic Foresight team. My first project was pioneering the new dual screen curved infotainment system for the Range Rover Velar. It was incredibly rewarding to see the idea through from concept to launch.”

After the successful launch, Evona was promoted to JLR’s Special Vehicle Operation. She became a chartered engineer and a mentor to support other aspiring women.

“Working in a male dominated industry has its challenges, but these challenges have shaped me, and that’s why I’m passionate about supporting women in engineering through organisations like the IET, where I serve as a professional review interviewer. I want to encourage more women and girls to look into engineering careers and gain recognition for their skills.”

In September 2024, Evona was appointed a visiting professor at Imperial College London’s Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, becoming the first woman awarded by the Royal Academy of Engineering at the university.

Career highlights

Evona was a finalist in the 2025 Women into Science and Engineering (WISE) Awards, where she met with WISE patron Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at the presentation.

“The WISE mission resonates with me because of the commitment to promote gender diversity in STEM, which is important for driving innovation and progress in our industry. Having the opportunity to stand alongside Princess Anne is a moment I will always cherish, and a great motivation to many women out there.”

Starting a family with her husband, Dr Sing Khien Tiong, during the Covid-19 pandemic was particularly challenging. They welcomed two children to their Warwickshire home: daughter Selene, now four, and son, Pharell, now two. Evona had to juggle her family and work commitments alongside her husband’s work in healthcare, though a supportive maternity policy and her mentoring role helped her to stay engaged with the sector.

“It takes a village to raise a child, and we’ve been fortunate to have supportive neighbours watching the children so we could attend the WISE Awards together. That sense of community has been invaluable.”

Hopes for the future

Evona is determined to continue breaking career ceilings for women in engineering, and to help others understand that having a family need not be a hindrance to professional achievement.

“I want my children – and all children – to know their worth. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and bring a unique perspective. Take that first step, own your space, and you’ll inspire others along the way.”

The deadline for entries to our 2025 Young Woman Engineer of the Year Awards is 27 June 2025. For more information, please visit: youngwomenengineer.theiet.org