What made you want to get into this industry?

Engineering is very hands on and creates an environment where you constantly have the opportunity to learn and explore new ideas. It also spans a wide variety of industries, as engineers are needed everywhere and the skills you gain are so practical and transferable, which leaves your career options wide open. Sustainable engineering is a particularly exciting field as you get to research and develop new technologies, which makes you feel like you are really having a positive impact on the world.

What does a typical day look like for you?

My role varies day to day and no two days are the same, which keeps me on my toes. I am currently working through the concept design stage of a new battery pack product. This involves product design using Computer Aided Design software, validating it using various tools such as Finite Element Analysis as well as holding frequent design reviews with fellow engineers to share ideas and further develop the product. This work will then lead to building prototypes of the product and physical testing of the design, all the way through to delivery of the finished product.

What challenges, if any, do you stereotypically face as a woman in engineering?

I wouldn’t say there are any particular challenges, most of the engineers I have worked with, whoever they are, have shown mutual respect and I have never felt that I have had any less opportunity than anyone else.

However, there is often a lack of senior female engineers to look up to within engineering organisations, this is something that needs to change but I believe is changing, albeit slowly. Having these role models would help to encourage young female students interested in STEM to pursue it as a career, making it easier for them to imagine themselves in those higher roles and really push themselves.

What advice would you give to young women wanting to go into your industry?

If engineering or any STEM career path is something you are interested in there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t go for it. Engineering needs people who can offer a different perspective on things, that is how we can continue to push innovation and design better products which are inclusive of everyone.