Women who Inspire: A conversation with M.Sc. Ivona Nedevska Trajkova on success in civil engineering

We have created a platform for millennial women working in the industry who are ready to share their success stories. We launched a series of interviews to highlight their inspiring experiences and achievements, focusing on women who are transforming the world around them. In this edition, we spoke with MSc Ivona Nedevska Trajkova, Civil Engineer and Assistant Lecturer at the Faculty of Civil Engineering in Skopje, Department of Railways.

Can you tell us more about the company where you are working and its objective?

I work as an assistant lecturer at the Faculty of Civil Engineering in Skopje, within the Department of Railways. Our main mission is to educate future engineers who will contribute to better, safer, and more sustainable transport infrastructure. In addition to teaching, I’m actively involved in research—especially in the field of railway maintenance and track quality analysis. I’m currently working on my PhD, which focuses on this area as well. It’s a big challenge, but one that truly inspires me.

What challenges have you faced as a millennial woman working in your industry, and how have you overcome them?

It’s still a bit unusual to see a woman on a construction site for many people. However, that image is changing as more women are choosing to study civil engineering. As a millennial woman in civil engineering, I often hear that I’m in a “non-typical profession.” But honestly, my experience has been really positive – from the very beginning, I was welcomed with respect and support from my colleagues. I’ve never faced open discrimination; on the contrary, my efforts and knowledge have always been valued.

Of course, there are subtle moments that show stereotypes still exist – especially in the field, where sometimes male colleagues can be a bit protective. But over time, through professionalism and persistence, that’s been overcome. Today, I’m part of a team where I’m treated equally with my colleagues, and we all work together with trust and respect.

The decision to go into engineering was something I initially had mixed feelings about. However, being a woman in engineering is honestly one of the most powerful things I feel I’ve done in my life.

As a millennial, my biggest challenge is definitely the pace – balancing teaching, fieldwork, and working on my PhD, which is quite complex and requires a lot of attention. Of course, there’s also the balance I need to strike with my personal life, but in the end, everything I do makes sense and helps me grow both as a professional and as a person.

What competencies or skills do you believe are most valuable for millennial women in the workplace, and why?

I believe adaptability is one of the most important skills today. The work environment is changing rapidly, and technology keeps bringing new opportunities and challenges. Millennial women are known for their independence, resilience, and creativity. They thrive in dynamic environments and are always ready to explore new ways to solve problems. In civil engineering and academia, millennial women excel at turning complex problems into practical solutions. They’re not only technically skilled – they’re great at project management, leading teams with confidence, and making sure everything gets done on time. They clearly communicate complex ideas and make them understandable for everyone, which makes them indispensable both on-site and in the classroom.

How can millennial women continue to develop and refine their skills in the industry?

The most important thing is to never stop learning—whether it’s through formal education, professional training, conferences, or hands-on experience. For me personally, being involved in different projects and collaborating with diverse people has been incredibly enriching—every collaboration brings something new. I’d particularly highlight the value of participating in regional and international conferences—they’re a great opportunity not only to stay up to date with current trends, but also to connect with professionals from the civil engineering field, which often leads to new collaborations and ideas. I’d also encourage other women to get involved in research or international professional networks—it truly broadens perspectives and opens many doors.

How do you think millennial women bring a unique perspective to the industry compared to previous generations?

Millennial women, including myself, grew up in a digital era, so it’s completely normal for us to ask questions, strive for balance, and seek meaning in what we do. They see work not just as a way to earn a living, but as an opportunity to make changes and have an impact. This freedom to think outside the box gives them a unique perspective. Of course, they’re willing to try new things, adapt to changes, and be innovative, which wasn’t as present in previous generations.

Millennial women grew up in a time when digitalization and globalization were happening rapidly, which influenced how they view their careers, relationships, and problem-solving at the workplace.

How do you see the role of mentorship and support networks playing a part in the advancement and success of millennial women in the workplace?

Mentorship is truly important for women to feel encouraged and believe in themselves. When we have someone guiding us, the whole process becomes much easier. Support networks are also key—they are a great place for exchanging experiences and ideas, helping to overcome challenges, and opening up new opportunities. Millennial women often rely on these networks because they understand how important it is to have support, which helps them grow and feel more confident.

Ivona Nedevska, M.Sc.

Teaching Assistant

Chair of Railways

Faculty of Civil Engineering, Skopje

University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius