Anoosheh Oskouian is a trailblazer in engineering and industrial sustainability. As the CEO of Ship & Shore Environmental, Inc., she has spent more than 20 years revolutionizing air pollution control with cutting-edge solutions across industries like chemical processing, printing and biofuels.
Despite the underrepresentation of women in engineering,Oskouian has led the charge in clean tech innovation, bridging the gap between environmental responsibility and industrial growth. Under her leadership, Ship & Shore Environmental has developed high-efficiency Regenerative Thermal Oxidizers (RTOs) and Direct-Fired Thermal Oxidizers (DFTOs) that help manufacturers worldwide reduce emissions by up to 99% while improving energy efficiency.
In this exclusive Q&A with Machine Design, we learn that Oskouian is an advocate for mentorship and diversity in STEM, actively supporting initiatives that empower young female engineers and professionals in the environmental sector.
Editor’s note: The following Q&A may have been edited for style and clarity.
Machine Design: What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering, and who were your role models along the way?
Anoosheh Oskouian: Growing up in Iran, I was fascinated by how things worked—how complex systems came together to solve real-world problems. I was driven by curiosity and the desire to make a meaningful impact on the environment and industry. My father, an entrepreneur himself, was my first role model. Later, as I entered the field, I found inspiration in leaders who broke barriers—especially women in STEM who paved the way in spite of overwhelming odds.
MD: Can you share a defining moment in your career that solidified your passion for engineering?
AO: One defining moment came early in my career when I led a project to retrofit an industrial facility with an air pollution control system. Seeing how our work directly improved air quality for the surrounding community made me realize the true power of engineering—to protect the environment and human health. That experience lit a fire in me that has never gone out.
MD: What are some of the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in a predominantly male field and how did you overcome them?
AO: Early on, I often found myself being the only woman in the room—and I had to work twice as hard to be heard and taken seriously. There were times I was overlooked or underestimated, but I chose to turn that into motivation. I built credibility through knowledge, persistence, and by consistently delivering results. Confidence and competence became my strongest tools.
MD: Can you share a success story that highlights your contributions to a project or team?
OA: At Ship & Shore Environmental, we once worked with a large manufacturing facility struggling to meet environmental regulations. We custom-engineered a Regenerative Thermal Oxidizer system that not only solved their compliance issue but also improved their energy efficiency. That project became a model for others and helped us grow into new markets. It was a win for our client, the environment and our team.
MD: How important has mentorship been in your career, and what advice would you give to young women entering the engineering field?
AO: Mentorship has been incredibly valuable. I’ve benefited from mentors who offered guidance, especially during pivotal transitions. For young women, I always say: find mentors who believe in you, but also challenge you. Don’t wait to be invited to the table—pull up a chair. Ask questions, be curious, and don’t let imposter syndrome silence your potential.
MD: What initiatives or support systems have you found effective for fostering a more inclusive engineering environment?
AO: Creating inclusive teams starts with leadership. At Ship & Shore, we’ve built a culture that values diverse perspectives, and we actively seek to mentor and promote women in technical roles. Industry-wide, initiatives like STEM education outreach, scholarships for women, and inclusive hiring practices are essential. Change happens when inclusivity is intentional.
MD: How do you see the role of women evolving in engineering and technology over the coming years?
AO: Women are not just participating—they’re leading. I see a future where women are at the forefront of innovation in sustainability, AI and clean technology. The old stereotypes are fading, and more companies are realizing that diverse teams drive better results. It’s not about fitting into the mold—it’s about reshaping it entirely.
MD: What are some of the key skills or qualities you believe are essential for engineers, particularly in multidisciplinary fields like manufacturing and machine design?
AO: Adaptability, creative problem-solving, and systems thinking are critical. In complex fields like manufacturing, engineers need to see the big picture while understanding the intricacies. Communication is also key—translating technical ideas across teams and stakeholders. And of course, a commitment to lifelong learning is essential in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world.
MD: What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in engineering?
AO: Go for it. Don’t wait for the perfect moment—there never is one. Engineering is about solving problems that matter, and your perspective is needed. Surround yourself with people who believe in your potential, and don’t be afraid to take up space. You have a right to be in every room where decisions are made.
MD: What organizations or resources would you recommend for aspiring female engineers?
AO: Organizations like Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Women in Engineering ProActive Network (WEPAN), and WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) are excellent. Many universities now have dedicated STEM programs for women. Mentorship platforms, networking events and even LinkedIn groups can offer support and connection.
MD: What changes would you like to see in the engineering industry to support women further?
AO: We need more transparency in hiring and promotion practices, more women in leadership roles and better work-life support systems, especially for working mothers. Pay equity is still a concern, and companies must invest in creating safe, supportive environments where women can thrive without having to fight for a seat at the table.
MD: What are your hopes for future generations of women in engineering on this International Women in Engineering Day?
AO: I hope they see no limits. I want them to know they can lead companies, design breakthrough technologies, and drive global change. I hope they inherit an industry where inclusion is the norm, not the exception. Most of all, I hope they inspire the next generation the way today’s trailblazers are doing now.
Editor’s Note: Machine Design’s WISE (Workers in Science and Engineering) hub compiles our coverage of workplace issues affecting the engineering field, in addition to contributions from equity seeking groups and subject matter experts within various subdisciplines.
