National Engineers Week Spotlight: Margarita Tsangaridou
Inspiring the Next Generation Through Transportation Engineering
As part of National Engineers Week, we’re proud to spotlight Margarita Tsangaridou, whose work in transportation engineering reflects both technical excellence and a deep commitment to people. This spotlight is especially meaningful as it coincides with Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day on February 25, 2026—a day dedicated to encouraging young women to explore engineering careers and see themselves in the profession.
With approximately five years of experience in the engineering industry, including over three years in a full‑time transportation engineering role at Gedeon GRC, Margarita represents a new generation of engineers helping shape safer, more efficient transportation systems while opening doors for those who follow.
In this feature, Margarita shares her career journey, the projects she’s most proud of, and her hopes for the future of the engineering profession.
How many years have you been working in the engineering industry?
“I have approximately five years of experience in the engineering industry, including over three years in a full‑time transportation engineering role at Gedeon GRC.”
What is the proudest project you have ever worked on?
“I am most proud of my work supporting both the Park Avenue Viaduct Replacement Project and my contributions to airport landside traffic operations and maintenance at LaGuardia Airport. Both experiences have allowed me to improve safety, efficiency, and the overall travel experience—whether through long‑term infrastructure improvements or day‑to‑day operational enhancements that impact thousands of people.”
These projects reflect Margarita’s ability to contribute at both the strategic and operational levels, improving how people move through some of the region’s most complex transportation environments.
What’s a piece of career advice you wish more women heard sooner?
“Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready to take on new opportunities! You don’t have to fit a mold to succeed in engineering—your unique perspective is what makes you an asset. Stay curious and resilient and don’t be afraid to take up space.”
This advice is especially resonant on Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, serving as a reminder that confidence grows through action—and that diverse perspectives strengthen the profession.
How do you hope your work will influence the next generation of engineers?
“I hope that my work demonstrates that engineering is not just about technical solutions, but about people. By contributing to safer and more efficient transportation systems, especially in high‑demand environments like airports, I want to show future engineers the difference their work can make. I also hope to encourage more women to see themselves in this field and to know that their perspective is needed and valued.”
What’s a barrier you’ve seen in engineering that’s getting better — and what’s still a work in progress?
“Historically, engineering has struggled with representation and creating spaces where everyone feels comfortable contributing. Thankfully, I have seen positive change through stronger mentorships, more inclusive teams, and increased visibility of women in leadership. At the same time, it is still a work in progress to make sure that inclusion is consistent across all teams and that everyone is empowered to share ideas and take on leadership opportunities.”
Celebrating Women in Engineering—and the Future of the Profession
Margarita’s story is a powerful example of how engineering blends technical skill with human impact. On Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, her journey underscores the importance of visibility, mentorship, and representation—showing young women that they belong in engineering and that their voices matter.
As we continue celebrating National Engineers Week, we’re proud to recognize Margarita and the many engineers who are not only shaping infrastructure, but also helping build a more inclusive and innovative future for the profession.
