What is your current role?
I am a Senior Hardware Engineer, working within obsolescence and components.
What did you study at school?
I joined Leonardo after completing my GCSEs, then I studied for a BTEC in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, HNC in Mechanical Engineering, HND in Mechanical Engineering, and finally a BSc in Engineering with Project Management, all during my time at the company.
Why did you decide to join Leonardo?
I wanted to be part of a company working on the latest technology, helping to keep people safe, whilst also being able to develop myself.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
I learn best by studying and doing at the same time, it was really good to be able to apply what I was learning to the workplace.
Tell us what you do in a typical day.
Chiefly, I work on new component requests that come from different projects. If those working on a project would like to bring in a new component, I am responsible for ensuring the component meets company specifications: from the materials used, to the environmental impacts.
In addition, I manage projects’ bills of materials. I notify projects of any components that become obsolete, and aim to give them the best solution I can find, to ensure our products can keep going.
Alongside my day-to-day work, I visit local schools to speak with students about my life as an engineer and give them fun STEM activities to do. I really hope to inspire as many students as I can to pursue a career in STEM.
I am also part of the Luton Charity Committee, and I really enjoy fundraising and organising events for us to raise as much money as possible for charity.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy seeing all of the new components and technology come in, and seeing how our products are continuously developing and becoming more and more advanced. I enjoy it when I am able to offer a perfect solution to any component problems that arise.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
I love anything crafty, particularly sewing and crocheting clothes! I also like going to the gym and taking part in pole classes.
What have been your biggest achievements at Leonardo so far?
Being a finalist at the Women in Defence Awards for the STEM category, and being named as a WES Top 50 Woman in Engineering has been amazing. Also, whenever I hear of student who has decided to look into STEM as a career after attending a talk or activity that I have been part of, that is really heart-warming.
What are your career aspirations?
I aspire to keep expanding my knowledge and skills, and learn new things whenever I can. I can’t say what the future holds yet, as there are so many opportunities to follow at Leonardo!