To mark International Women in Engineering Day, we invited several women working across the Rail Baltica project to share their experiences, motivations, and perspectives. These professionals represent different countries, companies, and roles – but they are united by a shared commitment to building the future of sustainable transportation.
In these interviews, they reflect on what inspired them to pursue a career in engineering, what they enjoy most about their work, and what advice they would offer to young women considering a similar path. Their stories highlight not only the technical challenges of large-scale infrastructure, but also the sense of purpose and impact that drives them.
We are proud to share their voices – and to recognize the talent, leadership, and passion they bring to the Rail Baltica project every day. Each story is a personal reflection on challenges, achievements, and the impact of their work in shaping the future of sustainable transport.
Anna Dorogova, Railway Safety Engineer, RB Rail AS
What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?
I believe it all started with my family – both of my parents were Railway Engineers, and they always approached their work with curiosity and dedication. They likely encouraged the mindset that I did not have to choose the easiest or most common path if I was capable of more. Over time, engineering became the right way for me to challenge myself and contribute to something meaningful. That motivation still drives me today!
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Being part of a large-scale, high-impact project; working with inspiring people; and learning from recognized experts in the field – all of this is incredibly valuable to me. Opportunities like this are still quite limited in our country, which makes the experience even more meaningful. And most importantly – it is always about staying on the safe side!
What advice would you give to young women considering engineering as a career?
Go for it – if it feels right for you! Engineering is all about mindset. Don’t be afraid of tough challenges: ask questions, stay curious, bring your own vision and unique perspective into your work, and make your own decisions. Trust yourself, especially when something feels off – your intuition is always valid (it is our superpower, after all). And for the youngest enthusiasts of extraordinary professions and their parents – here is a reading tip: “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls”.
Evelina Papakulienė, Construction Project Manager, LTG Infra
What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?
I pursued civil engineering during my academic journey. When it came time to select a specialization, my intuition guided me towards the road and rail programme, ultimately leading me to focus on railways. Trusting my instincts proved to be the right decision. When the opportunity arose, I joined LTG Group, where I have been able to fully realize my potential.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
There are always new questions and challenges that have never been encountered before, and my team and I are dedicated to finding solutions. This environment offers ample opportunities for information analysis, creative problem-solving, and collaborative discussions to identify the best possible solutions.
What advice would you give to young women considering engineering as a career?
Engineering is not as difficult as it may seem at first glance. While the studies can be challenging, no field of study is easy, making engineering an achievable and rewarding pursuit.
Maria Kommusaar, Project Manager, Rail Baltic Estonia
What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?
At the end of high school, I did not have a clear vision for my future, but since I enjoyed mathematics and had already taken the exam, I decided to apply to construction-related fields (building and road construction). I ended up choosing road construction, and I have not regretted my choice for a moment. What I love about construction is that the results are tangible – something that lasts and something people actually use. The feeling that I can contribute to creating something permanent and meaningful has been one of my greatest driving forces.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
As a project manager, what I enjoy most is that every day is different. There is always something going on. I coordinate the work of very diverse parties, which requires both technical expertise and strong communication skills. I love that I can be part of something big and meaningful – Rail Baltica is not just another construction project; it is part of the future transport network that connects countries and contributes to greener and more efficient mobility. Working on a project of this scale is challenging, but also incredibly motivating.
What advice would you give to young women considering engineering as a career?
Don’t be discouraged by the fact that engineering has traditionally been a male-dominated field. In reality, this is exactly the kind of field that needs diverse thinking, different perspectives, and strong team players. If you are interested in logic, systematic approaches, and like to see the concrete results of your work, then this is a very exciting career choice. While working on Rail Baltica, I have seen how essential good collaboration, clever thinking, and the ability to manage large processes are – these are all skills that women bring to the table equally. Be brave enough to try and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – every experience helps you move forward.
Elīna Loputeva, Project Engineer, Eiropas Dzelzceļa līnijas
What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?
I was very interested in the exact sciences at school, I liked mathematics more than the humanities. I chose to study construction and chose the geomatics major in my studies, where mathematics, engineering – all technical things – come together.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the result of your work. When you have done your job – prepared all the documentation, put together design plans with the other project documentation – the site is prepared and you can say to the builder, “Everything is ready, you can start building!” When construction begins and you see the project taking shape, this gives you true joy from work.
What advice would you give to young women considering engineering as a career?
Although nowadays there is no such strict division into male or female professions, sometimes old stereotypes still exist, including that engineering is a masculine profession. If young women like technical things and are interested in exact subjects, I would recommend not to be afraid and choose the profession of an engineer. We, women, can realize ourselves well in this profession – we have creative thinking, we are resourceful, we can do several things at the same time – this is our superpower! We can do everything and even more!