Eleanor Ball

DIRECTOR & FOUNDER

GRAPHIC STRUCTURES

I am a structural and civil engineer specialising in the design of buildings and their surrounding infrastructure. In 2016, I co-founded Graphic Structures and have developed the practice to serve our clients and community whilst providing an inclusive workplace where everyone can learn and develop.

Prior to Graphic Structures I worked in various roles for two top tier engineering consultancies and undertook a secondment as Site Engineer on Crossrail which helped broaden my perspectives on the industry. I see professional development as key and am chartered with both the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Institution of Structural Engineers.

I was attracted to structural engineering because of the tangible outcomes for communities. I love the fact that my work contributes towards a new building being created and the positive impact that has on our built environment and society. 

My key strength is communication. I like working in big teams, negotiating conflicting requirements and using the diversity of thought this creates to arrive at brilliant outcomes. This has been fundamental to building a successful business, and I have seen first-hand the benefits when everyone’s voice is brought to the table.

There is a significant lack of women in leadership positions in the construction industry and this has a self-perpetuating impact for the lack of diversity. This was a key driver for me to start my own business built on equality and inspire the next generation of engineers. It is also why I actively participate in a variety of wider roles including as a STEM volunteer and mentoring, and why initiatives such as She Build are so important.

The construction industry offers a wide variety of opportunities for a fulfilling and meaningful career. Everyone in the industry has a common goal to improve our built environment, however, the industry needs to continue to evolve to ensure there is a diversity of thought and talent in decision making.

My vision is for an industry where women are equally represented in leadership positions, bringing a diversity of viewpoints to decision making and inspiring the next generation of female engineers.