WISE Young Professionals Board Bio
How I came to STEM
I came to STEM from a keen interest in Formula 1. I have always really enjoyed Maths and Physics, and through school was given many fantastic opportunities such as taking part in the Engineering Education Scheme (now Industrial Cadets with the Engineering Development Trust). My team were given a real world problem to solve working with Alstom, and we were able to design, build and test a model in the wind tunnel at Loughborough University. I also did some work experience at a MIRA (Motor Industry Research Association), using CAD to design parts and driving cars round the test track. I remember having such a good time I didn’t want to go after the week was up!
I went on to study Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bristol, as it seemed the most broad option into engineering to keep all avenues open. I was fortunate to undertake a summer placement with BAE Systems too which was a great introduction into the world of work in engineering.
Throughout university, I expanded my thoughts on what I might want to do and went on to join Network Rail on the engineering graduate scheme, where I have been since!
Why I love what I do
Part of my day to day role involves getting to work on the standards that govern how we manage the rail network and trialling innovations that can improve current ways of working. It’s really amazing to see the impact of my changes on the teams within the organisation. Ultimately all of the work we do goes towards improving our service for passengers, and it’s so exciting seeing these improvements come to life through enhancement projects and track renewals. One of my favourite things about being an engineer is being able to work on projects that are happening in the here and now.
What I’m proud of and what I’m hoping to achieve through the WYPB
I’m really proud that I was able to achieve my chartership with the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). Throughout my time at school and career so far I’ve been very lucky to have some really inspiring role models, and have always been encouraged to pursue engineering as a career. However this is not to say there aren’t challenges in this industry, and I hope through supporting the WISE Young Professionals’ Board I can influence some of the initiatives to remove these!