What does your role involve on a day-to-day basis?
I work with Cad software such as Solidworks and AutoCAD. These are 3D and 2D design programs I use to create models and drawings that are then issued to our suppliers to be manufactured.
How did you get started working in STEM?
When I was studying in school, I had no idea where I wanted to end up. I knew my strongest subjects were maths and science, and my careers adviser pointed me to an engineering college called Appris, which could help to find me an apprenticeship. I then came for a two-day trial at LBBC doing Mechanical Design and decided very quickly that I didn’t want to work anywhere else.
What qualifications did you take or gain along the way?
In school, I achieved sevens in maths and science (equivalent to an A) at GCSE level. I then went to Appris, where I completed my level two and three diplomas in advanced manufacturing engineering, and I’m currently studying to achieve level four.
Why do you love working in STEM?
When I first started my apprenticeship, I had little to no clue about engineering, however what I love the most is all of the learning I am able to do. LBBC gives me loads of opportunities to learn and grow my engineering knowledge through training sessions, site visits, and on-the-job learning. I love to look back and see how far I’ve come from when I started to where I am now.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
I have dyslexia, which mainly affects my reading and writing, so I chose a more maths and science-based role. However, since starting my apprenticeship I can see how much my English skills have improved. Everyone around me has worked hard to help me improve my essay writing by checking over my work to make sure it reads well and giving me advice on where it can be improved so that I can pass my courses.
What advice would you offer for someone joining the STEM sectors?
I would recommend going through an apprenticeship route. By learning and earning at the same time, you are jumping into the world of work while still gaining the knowledge and experience that I needed within the role. I can’t recommend it enough!
What do we need to do as an industry to attract and keep more women in STEM?
I think we need to change the stereotype that STEM is a ‘man’s world’ from a younger age. I know that throughout my younger school years, I thought STEM was for men and beauty was for women. However, this perception needs to be changed so that when young teens are deciding the subjects, they don’t have a fear of being the ‘odd one out’.
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