British Engines commit significant resources into encouraging new talent into the engineering industry. We actively encourage employees from across the group to participate in a range of events, from Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) careers fairs to engaging talks, school visits and engineering workshops.
Andrew Myers, Design Engineer at Rotary Power, and Tyne and Wear IMechE Young Member’s Panel Chairman, talks to us about the International Women in Engineering Day: Inspiring Careers event, which will be held on 22nd June and why it is so important.
Why has the Inspiring Careers event been organised?
The IMechE Tyne and Wear Young Member’s Panel has organised this event with help from the Institute of Chemical Engineering. The event will help to raise awareness of the jobs and opportunities available to women within the industry. We want to celebrate the achievements of women who work in engineering and encourage young women to consider it as a career. This event ties in with National Women in Engineering Day, which takes place on 23rd June.
Why is it important to hold events like this?
There is already a huge shortfall of qualified engineers in the UK. Currently only 9% of people working in the engineering industry are women and we would like to encourage more women and young people to consider a career in engineering to help with the demands of the future.
Why do you think the number of women in the industry is so low?
I think it is partly down to people not understanding the opportunities that are available within the industry. A lot of people think that working in engineering involves being covered in oil every day when in fact that is not the case. It’s the perception of engineering that is probably to blame, yet many of us work in high technology, state of the art industries, where there is something different happening every day.
So what will the event involve?
We have four inspiring women from various engineering industries who will be talking about their careers, their achievements and how they got to where they are now.
- Diana Hunter, Design Engineer at Salamander Pumps Ltd.
- Cheryl Argent, Principal Engineer at Rosen UK.
- Maria Dimova, Production Engineer at Komatsu UK Ltd.
- Helen Garvock, Process Engineer at Aesica Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
What is the aim of this event?
Our aim is to celebrate women in engineering and give an insight into the engineering world through our four guest speakers. We want to actively encourage young people, whether they are studying at college, school or university or maybe even a young professional, to consider a career in the engineering industry. The event is open to everyone, not just women, and we are hoping to get a good mix in our audience.
Why would you recommend a career in engineering?
I would recommend a career in engineering because every day is different; there is always a new challenge to overcome or a new problem to solve and you get to work with a variety of people. Engineering is such a big industry that there is something for everyone, there are so many career opportunities in so many different fields.
Why do you think it is important to participate in industry activities outside of your role with British Engines?
I think it’s important for your professional development as an engineer. Not only does attending events outside of work broaden your knowledge, but it also allows you to meet like-minded engineers from other industry sectors. I do it because I am passionate about engineering and the North East. I want more people to be aware of the amazing things that are going on in our region and the incredible opportunities available to engineers.