hannah lu
TYLin Women Engineers

Beyond Concrete and Steel: The Human Touch in Building a Better World

Beyond Concrete and Steel: The Human Touch in Building a Better World

Women in Engineering: Meet Hannah Lu, Project Manager & Technical Lead

When did you join TYLin? 
I joined TYLin in October 2015, serving as a liaison between the Taiwan and Panamá offices for the structural design of the Panama Metro Line 2 Project. Prior to that, I worked as a construction engineer on the Panama Canal Expansion Project in 2013. Subsequently, I pursued a master's degree in construction management in Taiwan. I am based in TYLin's office in Panamá City, Pánama.

What are two of the most memorable projects you have worked on? 
The Panama Metro Line 2 Project, a design-build project, included the structural, architectural, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design of 21 kilometers of elevated viaduct and 16 elevated stations. Given that our Panama office was small at the time and still growing, I collaborated with our offices in Miami, Florida, and Taiwan. The biggest challenge was achieving interdisciplinary coordination and  meeting customer expectations. This project is memorable, as it was my first project with TYLin. We were part of a project that changed many people's lives, and I am very proud to be a part of it. 

For the ongoing I-35 Northeast Expansion Central Project (I-35 NEX)  in Texas, another design-build endeavor, I oversaw the Panamá office's design services and was the delivery manager and document controller. This has been a memorable project because this was my first time working on a project outside Panamá. We had the opportunity to demonstrate the technical and management skills that we could offer abroad. I also believe we succeeded in integrating and communicating effectively with our sister offices.

What inspired you to become an engineer? 
I wanted to learn how great constructions are made and how to make a positive impact on the daily lives of people. 

What personal traits or characteristics have helped you succeed in this position? 
I remain composed and calm, evaluating and determining priorities to make good and achievable decisions for our team and the client. 

What technical skills have helped you advance in your career? 
The engineering knowledge I gained during  college has helped me understand and offer insights during meetings. Also, my management skills have helped me mplement implement processes and organize and guide the team toward achieving a common goal.

Who have been mentors and advisors in your career? 
My father was my first mentor. He consistently encouraged me to study, work, and grow in my professional life. In 2020, I got to know Carol Choi, PE, Ing., CQM/OE, a Principal Project Manager for TYLin's Bridge Sector. Since then, Carol has always been supportive and provided guidance on how to proceed  professionally in any situation.

What advice would you give to young engineers who are interested in a position such as yours? 

To be clear on the position you want: set your goals, study, be fearless, and believe in yourself. As a Hispanic woman working on international projects, it's important to note that learning English was key to reaching a management position. 

What's one thing the engineering industry can do to encourage more women into its ranks? 
Having women in engineering and management positions makes a positive impact on our younger female engineers because they can take them as examples to follow. Also, mentoring programs will encourage and guide young female engineers on how to pursue and attain high positions. 

What do you like most about working at TYLin? 
TYLin fosters a multicultural environment that I deeply appreciate. I've enjoyed meeting the people with whom I had the opportunity to share experiences on various projects. 

Any additional comments or insights you would like to share?
As a Project Manager, I am involved in all the disciplines and processes of the project. However, we Project Managers rely heavily on our teams. Because of this, communication, motivation, and trust are crucial to ensure everyone remains focused on their responsibilities for the project to succeed.