IGEM first women president appointed

IGEM appoints its first woman President

History was made at the annual general meeting of the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers when the organisation appointed its first female President.

Sheila Lauchlan is a self-employed Engineer and Director of Edinburgh-based consultancy, Perfect Dimensions Ltd. Sheila works on complex high pressure gas pipeline projects as well as writing procedures for multi-utility infrastructure works, and acting as Technical Advisor for companies operating on the Gas Industry Registration Scheme.

Born in Edinburgh, she graduated from Edinburgh's Napier University with a BSc honours degree in Industrial Design (Technology). She has worked within the gas industry since 2000, starting as an Administrative Assistant with Transco Connections.

A former Chair of the Scottish section of IGEM, she remains an active member of the section's management committee.  Sheila also sits on several IGEM committees and is Vice Chair of the membership committee.  She is an Incorporated Engineer and Fellow of the Institution.

Sheila is a keen sailor, a qualified Yachtmaster, commercial Skipper and part-time yacht Cruising Instructor.  She is also a registered Zumba instructor and qualified as a fitness instructor at the start of this year.

As part of its commitment to diversity within the industry IGEM has this year become a sponsor of Women in Engineering Day, held annually on June 23.  Sheila said: "I am delighted to be heading an organisation that recognises the importance of diversity within the workforce. It has been shown to be a positive force, both for businesses and employees, fostering respect and improving standards."

At the Annual Meeting when Sheila took over IGEM also appointed four women as section representatives on its governing council. They were: Katie Higgins for Industrial Affiliates; Rosemary McAll for Midlands; Philippa Wren for South West; and Helen Fitzgerald for Wales. 

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