Women of PCSD: Deniz Ilgen, Senior Project Manager, Southern California

For Women’s History Month, PCSD highlighted the many extraordinary women who guide our charter school partners through the complex facilities development process so our partners can focus on what matters most – teaching and learning.

How long have you worked at PCSD?

6 months

How did you get into the field of facility development and education?

I studied civil engineering in undergrad and got my Masters in structural engineering. During my first internship out of college, I realized that structural engineering wasn’t for me. I enjoyed the overall process of seeing projects come to fruition, but not just from the one structural design aspect. After that I ended up in construction management and learned as much as I could about construction for the next seven years.

I was blessed to always have access to great education and realized how challenging it was for some children to access a decent education. I started tutoring with School on Wheels as a way to give back. I was excited to be able to bring my passion and experience together at PCSD.

What advice would you give young women entering this field?

In general, it’s harder for women to succeed in male-dominated fields like these. However, I believe in keeping your head up and never giving up. It’s hard work, but it’s definitely worth it if you are truly passionate about the subject.