Czarina Calma's Story

Breaking Barriers and Building Foundations

I began my career as a Shift Engineer at The Medical City Clark, where I was responsible for overseeing the operations of critical equipment and systems. From day one, I understood that I had to prove myself. Every challenge, every skeptical glance, and every expectation placed upon me only fueled my determination. I quickly learned that success in this field required more than just technical expertise, it demanded adaptability, confidence, and an unwavering belief in my capabilities.

As I honed my skills, growth opportunities followed. I was promoted to Contract Manager for WTW, marking a significant turning point in my career. This role introduced me to the complexities of Integrated Facility Management (IFM), where Sodexo provided all services under one roof. Managing an IFM account required me to lead multidisciplinary teams, balance diverse responsibilities, and ensure seamless operations. It was a challenge that tested me, but it also expanded my leadership skills and strategic thinking.

Leading with Purpose

My journey didn’t stop there. I transitioned to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), a move that pushed me even further as a leader. Working in a complex healthcare environment brought new challenges, but it also presented an opportunity to empower those around me—especially women. I made it my mission to mentor, uplift, and inspire, ensuring that my colleagues felt seen, valued, and encouraged to pursue their paths to success.

Today, I have the privilege of handling the Johnson & Johnson account, where I oversee projects that have a direct impact on both our clients and the communities we serve. Looking back, I see a journey shaped by resilience, continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to breaking barriers.

Empowering Women in Engineering

Working in a male-dominated industry has given me firsthand insight into the challenges that women in engineering face—whether it’s the need to prove our expertise, navigate biases, or find mentors who understand our experiences. However, I’ve also seen the power of support, mentorship, and opportunity in transforming careers and lives.

Throughout my career, I have been passionate about mentoring other women, encouraging them to step into leadership roles, trust in their abilities, and embrace their ambitions without hesitation. Women’s empowerment is not just about individual success — it’s about lifting each other, inspiring change, and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

To every aspiring female engineer, leader, and innovator: Believe in yourself. Push boundaries. Seek opportunities. And never underestimate the power of your own potential.

Let’s continue to raise awareness, champion inclusivity, and create a future where gender is never a barrier to success. The blueprint for change starts with us.