Abbott’s Jasmine Swift discusses how a career in engineering is far more than just another nine to five.
“Growing up in an engineering household shaped my curiosity from an early age,” explains Jasmine Swift, a senior process project engineer at healthcare company Abbott.
“My father was an engineer and I was constantly surrounded by conversations about problem-solving, design, and innovation. That exposure gave me a general understanding of engineering principles long before college, and it sparked a fascination with how things work.”
She says, “I didn’t just see engineering as a job”, instead she regards it as a vehicle through which professionals can “create solutions that make life better”.
“That foundation, strengthened through my education and career experiences, made choosing this path feel natural. It’s a career where curiosity meets impact and that’s what drew me in.”
What’s the best thing about working in this field?
The best part is the sense of purpose and impact. Every project I work on contributes to improving health and nutrition for people around the world. That’s a powerful motivator, it’s not just engineering for the sake of engineering; it’s engineering that changes lives. I also love the variety and challenge. STEM is never static. There’s always a new technology, a new problem to solve, or a new way to make processes more efficient and sustainable. It keeps me learning and growing every single day, and that’s something I value.
What’s the most exciting development you’ve witnessed in your sector since you started working in it?
The evolution of automation and data analytics has been incredible to witness. When I first started, many processes were still heavily manual, relying on operator experience and traditional controls. Today, we’re leveraging smart sensors, predictive modelling, and real-time data to optimise performance and reduce variability. What excites me most is how these technologies don’t just make processes faster, they make them smarter and more sustainable. For example, predictive maintenance can prevent downtime before it happens and advanced analytics help us minimise waste and energy use. It’s a shift from reactive to proactive, and it’s transforming how we think about manufacturing. Seeing this digital transformation unfold reminds me why I chose engineering: it’s about continuous improvement and shaping the future.
What aspect of your job did you struggle to get to grips with?
Early in my career, I struggled with stakeholder alignment. Engineering solutions aren’t just technical, they involve people, priorities, and timelines. I had to learn that success depends as much on communication and collaboration as it does on technical expertise. It was a shift in mindset: moving from ‘I need to solve this problem’ to ‘I need to bring everyone along on the journey.’ Over time, I developed skills in active listening, empathy, and clear communication, which have made me a stronger leader and a better engineer.
How were challenges overcome?
One of the toughest challenges has been working on a project that started as a small initiative and then transformed into a significant and strategic project for our site – a project I’m still leading today. The scale-up was enormous, and with it came increased visibility, tight timelines, and high expectations. Managing this transition required me to shift from a technical mindset to a strategic leadership role. Suddenly, it wasn’t just about engineering solutions but about aligning stakeholders, managing risk, and keeping a diverse team motivated under pressure. To navigate this, I focused on breaking the work into clear phases, building strong team dynamics, and maintaining transparent communication. I also leaned heavily on mentorship and coaching to strengthen my leadership skills. This experience continues to teach me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of collaboration. It’s a defining chapter in my career that proves growth often comes from stepping into discomfort.
If you had the power to change anything within the STEM sector, what would that be?
I would focus on making STEM careers more accessible and inclusive. When different perspectives come together, we create better solutions and stronger teams. But change needs to start early. Too often, children grow up with a narrow view of what engineering looks like, typically imagining someone in a hard hat on a construction site. I’d love to see schools actively educate students about the wide range of engineering roles, from process design to data analytics to sustainability. Showing young people the breadth of opportunities could inspire the next generation of innovators and break down stereotypes that limit potential.
Which of your personality traits makes you best suited to your job and this sector?
Curiosity and adaptability are at the heart of everything I do. Curiosity drives me to ask ‘why’ and ‘how’ every single day, whether it’s understanding a process, troubleshooting a problem, or exploring new technologies. It keeps me learning and growing, even when the answers aren’t obvious. Adaptability is equally important because STEM is constantly evolving. Projects change, priorities shift, and unexpected challenges arise. Being able to pivot quickly, stay calm under pressure, and find creative solutions have been critical to my success. I’d also add resilience and empathy. Resilience helps me push through setbacks without losing sight of the bigger picture, and empathy allows me to connect with people. Engineering isn’t just about machines and data; it’s about collaboration and understanding the human side of every decision.
Is there something in your personal life that helps you or has helped you in your job?
Definitely. Growing up with my father as an engineer gave me an early appreciation for problem-solving and innovation. That exposure gave me a foundation that I’ve built on through college and my career. Having that understanding early in life made technical concepts feel less intimidating and gave me confidence to tackle challenges head-on. Over time, I’ve strengthened that base with formal education and hands-on experience, but the curiosity and logical thinking I learned at home still guide me every day. It’s a reminder that our roots often shape the way we lead and create.
How do you make connections with others in the STEM community?
For me, building connections is about being intentional and authentic. I actively seek out opportunities to engage through professional networks, industry conferences, or internal groups like Women Leaders of Abbott. These spaces allow me to share ideas and learn from others. The STEM community thrives on collaboration, and every connection is a chance to learn something new or spark innovation.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in your field?
Be curious and fearless. Engineering is about solving problems, and the best solutions often come from bold ideas and diverse perspectives. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even the ‘simple’ ones, and seek opportunities that stretch you beyond your comfort zone. One of my favourite insights from Brené Brown’s book Dare to Lead is that ‘clear is kind.’ In STEM, clarity matters whether you’re explaining a design, managing a project, or leading a team. Communicate openly, set clear expectations, and don’t shy away from tough conversations. It builds trust and makes collaboration stronger. Also, remember that STEM isn’t just about technical skills; it’s about courage, creativity, and connection. Build your network, find mentors, and never stop learning. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and every failure is a stepping stone towards success.
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