Who are you, what is your job role and what do you do?
My name is Fareha Khan, and I am a Mechanical Graduate Engineer in the Tunnel Ventilation team at Arup. My role focuses on simulating and validating the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of underground ventilation systems, which are essential for modern transit networks and other tunnel applications.
I specialise in optimising airflow models, simulating emergency fire scenarios, and designing solutions that meet environmental standards. By collaborating with structural and fire engineers, I help create infrastructure that supports sustainable urban growth and development.
Based in Arup’s London office, I’m part of a dynamic graduate community where I collaborate, share experiences, and learn alongside peers embarking on their engineering journeys. My day-to-day work involves a mix of team discussions, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and schematic modelling, and presenting findings to colleagues or clients. Beyond technical work, there’s a strong emphasis on professional development and knowledge sharing, which I find invaluable as I establish my career.
What excites me most about my role is the opportunity to bridge technical problem-solving with real-world impact. Whether it’s contributing to safer metro systems or finding innovative ways to meet sustainability goals, I feel privileged to work on projects that drive meaningful change in infrastructure and urban development.
Can you tell us about any current projects that you’re working on?
Currently, I’m working on several exciting projects that showcase the range of work in tunnel ventilation. A significant part of my role involves modelling fire scenarios for metro stations using Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), a computational tool that analyses smoke behaviour during emergencies. This enables us to evaluate and improve the performance of ventilation systems, directly contributing to passenger safety.
I’m also contributing to Subway Environment Simulations (SES), where I collect and process CAD drawings to build a 1D Vertical Alignment Model. This model helps predict airflow, heat transfer, and environmental conditions within subway tunnels, ensuring that systems operate efficiently under different scenarios.
One of the most innovative projects I’ve been part of involves developing a Virtual Reality (VR) platform to visualise fire and ventilation simulations. This technology offers stakeholders an immersive understanding of complex systems, transforming abstract engineering data into accessible, intuitive insights. The work highlights how emerging technologies can complement traditional engineering tools, offering new ways to communicate designs effectively.
Every project presents unique challenges, but the common thread is the opportunity to use computational tools and creative thinking to solve real-world problems.
What was your career path and how did it lead you to your current role?
I’ve always been fascinated by problem-solving and high-speed vehicles (from Formula 1 to aircrafts), which led me to pursue a BEng in Aeronautical Engineering and an MSc in Advanced Aeronautics and Space Systems. During my studies, I discovered a passion for high-speed airflow analysis, aerodynamics, and sustainability. While I initially envisioned a career in aerospace, I realised that these skills could make a meaningful impact in the infrastructure sector, particularly in designing safe and sustainable systems for urban environments.
An internship with Spirit AeroSystems was pivotal in my journey. It allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges while sharpening my skills in CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and FEA (Finite Element Analysis). Beyond technical expertise, I gained insights into teamwork and the importance of communication in engineering projects.
At university, I was also involved in societies like Engineers Without Borders and the Students of Colour Network. These experiences nurtured my interest in sustainability, advocacy and activism, shaping my desire to work for a company that aligns with my values. Arup’s commitment to tackling engineering challenges with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and social impact made it the perfect fit. Today, I’m proud to contribute to projects that resonate with my passions and expertise.
What do you enjoy most about your current role and company?
What I love most about my role at Arup is the perfect balance between technical challenges and creative collaboration. Every project is unique, requiring a tailored approach to meet safety, performance, and sustainability goals. It’s incredibly satisfying to see how our work directly impacts the design of infrastructure that serves communities worldwide.
The collaborative environment at Arup is equally rewarding. I work with talented engineers from various disciplines—fire, structural design, software and sustainability—all bringing diverse perspectives to the table. This multidisciplinary approach fosters constant learning and growth, and I’m inspired by the expertise and creativity of my colleagues.
Arup’s emphasis on innovation resonates deeply with me. For instance, my involvement in developing a VR platform has opened my eyes to how technology can revolutionise traditional engineering practices. The company’s strong values around sustainability and social responsibility also align with my own, creating a sense of purpose in my work.
Finally, being based in the London office offers a vibrant graduate community where I can connect with peers who share similar challenges and aspirations. It’s a supportive environment where we encourage each other’s growth, both personally and professionally.
What would be your main piece of advice to students looking to pursue a career in engineering?
My advice is simple: stay curious and proactive. Engineering is an ever-evolving field, so embrace lifelong learning. Explore new technologies, stay informed about emerging trends, and see challenges as opportunities to grow.
Seek hands-on experience early. Internships, placements, or personal projects bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application. These experiences will enhance your technical skills and boost your confidence as an engineer.
Equally important are communication and collaboration skills. Engineering is rarely a solo endeavour, and being able to articulate complex ideas clearly to teammates, clients, or stakeholders is invaluable.
Finally, choose a career path that aligns with your passions and values. For me, it was the combination of sustainability, social impact, and technical challenges that drew me to Arup. Reflect on what drives you and find a company or role that resonates with those motivations. When you align your work with your passions, you’ll build a fulfilling and impactful career.
Fareha Khan, Mechanical Graduate Engineer in the Tunnel Ventilation team at Arup.
The Student Engineer is a special channel of The Engineer aimed at educating and inspiring engineering undergraduates about the career opportunities in engineering and also offering practical advice on how they can access these opportunities.
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