The Future of Engineering: Justine Butler on AI, Sustainability & Growth

What excites you about your role? 

I’m passionate about people, specifically understanding what makes them ‘tick’ and how best to develop their talent in an inclusive atmosphere. I use emotional intelligence to build relationships within my team through one-on-one meetings, collaborative group activities, 360 degree feedback and daily interactions to solve problems, review performance and create a positive trusted environment. Effective communication is key. My commitment to training over 1000 individuals in communication skills underscores its importance alongside technical expertise.

What have you found challenging?

Until five years ago, I thought I needed to and almost wanted to take my foot off my career pedal. As a mum of two young children, I used to focus more on what I couldn’t do than what I could do — and do well. 

My career has accelerated without jeopardizing my important role as a mother. By adapting my mindset and working hard, I gained a new confidence that’s benefited both my professional and personal life. In the words of Rhonda Morris, former chief of human resources at Chevron, “Empowered women empower women.” 

I’ve become an empowered woman, and I aspire to empower others. For women, men, and everybody, success can come in spades and the journey can be very enjoyable. 

Can you share one piece of advice?

My leadership role requires me to bounce back from challenges while staying focused on market trends and business growth. Working in a highly competitive market, I’ve faced heightened pressure, but a positive attitude and growth mindset has strengthened my resilience. Challenges are inevitable in any role, but adopting a positive attitude beforehand allows for more effective execution, and as importantly, helps minimize stress afterwards. 

What excites you about the future of this industry? 

I’m excited about the future for many reasons. We continue to grow as a business and collaborate more with our global offices. From a design perspective, I look forward to seeing the continued sustainable design that has been achieved on multiple projects, as well as what’s to come on using AI as part of our project delivery. Our challenges and opportunities are different from those of five years ago, but I’ve no doubt we’ll adapt — as we always do —and continue delivering exceptional, complex industrial facilities.

When you aren’t working, what are we most likely to find you doing? 

Spending time with my family. We enjoy quiet moments — reading or watching TV after negotiating what to watch. Other times, we look for any excuse to host a gathering, as we all love lively moments just as much.

What do you enjoy most about being part of #OurJacobs? 

The sense of community in Jacobs is like no other. Despite being such a large organization, we are well connected and you’re never too far away from a high-caliber colleague.