What made you decide to study the MEng Integrated Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (IMEE) with industrial placement?

I chose to study my course because of the broader range of taught modules, applied mathematics and practical aspects it offered. My year in industry was an invaluable experience, a step on the career ladder and an insight prior to graduate job hunting.

What influenced your decision to pursue a career in engineering?

I chose engineering because I had been on an engineering experience weekend, where I saw the wide range of future opportunities available to me. It was also a way to apply my previous education into an actual career.

Where have you previously worked and how did this lead to your current position?

I worked at Aero Engine Controls (now Rolls-Royce Controls and Data Services) and Schlumberger. I managed to obtain a graduate job with both companies and had to choose between them based on location.

What challenges have you faced and how did you overcome them?

Personal circumstances affected my studies and made me more determined to do well in the following final year. Knowing about potential job opportunities motivates you to aim high and carry on, especially as some jobs can be very competitive.

What aspect of engineering do you particularly enjoy?

I enjoy applying theory and fundamental knowledge to applications.

What advice would you give to young women interested in studying engineering?

Don’t be intimated by the male dominance in the industry. Engineering is a continually growing field that encompasses a huge range of careers. The engineering stereotype of a mechanic is far from accurate, and now engineering is becoming better recognised for its long chain of processes; that is, design, implementation, technology, manufacture, sustaining etc.

What are your career plans for the future?

I will be completing my three-year graduate development programme and working towards being chartered.