Driving Change Through Sustainable Engineering Careers: Xye Lapuz’s Story

“I looked for roles that would challenge me,” she says. “Three years after university, I found my niche in the construction industry.”

That decision shaped what has become a career focused on improving how buildings perform and how they impact the environment.

Finding a Path in Sustainable Engineering

Xye went on to work on over 20 projects as a LEED Accredited Professional in Manila, including hospitals, residential developments and pharmaceuticals. Over time, that experience led her towards driving change in sustainable engineering, particularly in complex data centre environments.

Today, as Principal Sustainability Engineer at Black & White Engineering, Xye is applying her expertise to one of the most demanding areas of the industry. “Improving energy performance for such energy-intensive buildings is no small task,” she explains. “But it’s also what makes the work so rewarding.”

Her experience shows us how sustainable engineering careers often evolve, not through a straight path, but by following the problems you want to solve.

A Workplace that Supports Development

Xye joined Black & White just over two years ago and highlights the company’s commitment to professional development as a major reason she enjoys her role.

“Black & White’s dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth is one of the things I appreciate most about my current role. This investment creates a culture that inspires everyone to achieve success and be creative,” she says. The support offered to her throughout  has helped her continue building her expertise in sustainability within complex infrastructure.

Earning Respect Through Persistence and Technical Skill

In the early stages of her career, Xye encountered real challenges that tested her confidence.

“When I worked with teams in the Middle East, I was excluded from meetings simply because I was a woman. My opinions were dismissed,” she recalls. Instead of being discouraged, she stayed focused on her work. “I worked hard until my senior engineers recognised my abilities and included me as a valuable member of the team.”

Xye is quick to credit the mentors who supported her development. “My former managers saw my potential and provided the environment in which I was able to develop my skills further and gain more confidence in carrying out my work.”

As an active member of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES), supported by Black & White. Last year, Xye was named one of the Top 50 Women in Engineering in the UK. “That recognition really encouraged me to engage more deeply with the WES community and continue advocating for women in engineering,” she says.

Bringing Sustainability to Life for the Next Generation

Xye is currently authoring a children’s book on green buildings for the Lottie Tour, a WES initiative designed to introduce engineering careers to young girls. “It’s about sparking curiosity early. I want young minds to understand how engineering can help develop greener buildings and a more sustainable future.”

Her message is simple:

“Read, write, stay informed. The glass ceiling is a myth if you’re prepared to keep going. Your success depends on your effort and determination.”

Explore Sustainable Engineering Careers

If you’re interested in building a career that focuses on sustainability and real-world impact, there are opportunities to grow within global engineering teams.

Explore current roles and find out more about careers at Black & White Engineering on our careers page.

 

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