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News: Women choosing engineering

Please note: This news story may contain information that is no longer current or up to date.

International Women in Engineering Day takes place on 23 June every year. It is designed to highlight the amazing careers in engineering and technical roles for women, and allows us to celebrate the achievements of outstanding women engineers.

We spoke to some of our female engineering students to see what college life is like

Bria Edgley-Green

How did you get into engineering? 'I finished school and then did one year of A levels, but it just didn’t suit me, so I did some research and decided to apply for an engineering course at Central College Nottingham. After doing a Level 2 course I chose the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Engineering as it’s equivalent to three A levels, and I wanted the UCAS points so I can do a university-level course.' How have you found your training as a young woman in engineering? 'As a girl, people make a big deal out of it as there aren’t that many girls going into engineering, which is a real shame, but once you’re there, it’s fine!' Do you have any advice for other girls hoping to study Engineering? 'If you’re smart enough there’s no reason not to apply for engineering no matter whether you are male or female – it’s like a male hairdresser, it’s about skills. It’s only natural to feel nervous about stereotypes but that shouldn’t be a reason not to do something you love.' What made you want to study at college? 'The staff here focus on what you’re going to do next more than the staff at my school did, for example telling us about HNDs and apprenticeships. Employers come in to talk to us about careers and apprenticeships too. The facilities are good, for example the welding facilities are not something I’d have had at school.'

Amy Warren

How did you get into engineering?

‘I’ve always been interested in engineering and how things work, and so the BTEC Extended Diploma at Central was the right choice for me.’

How have you found your training as a young woman in engineering?

‘Coming to college was the best route for me, because I find the learning more independent – I don’t like being babysat so it works for me! At first, I thought I might struggle with it being so independent, but to be honest this type of independence is what you’ll need in a job, so it will help you in your career. Also the staff are great, they’re really helpful.’

Have you had to overcome any barriers?

‘I’m blind in one eye so I can find it hard to gauge depth and might struggle with some things, but it doesn’t stop me from doing anything. I also get support at college to help me.’

What are your future plans?

‘I haven’t decided exactly which area I’d like to go into, but at the moment I’m really interested in mechanical engineering and Computer Aided Design.’

What do you think about women in engineering?

‘It’s a shame there aren’t more women in engineering, I know there’s a shortage currently so there are some good opportunities, and really it’s fine! The boys on the course treat you with respect and college is a really good experience.’

Published on:
  • 23rd June 2017 (10:59 AM)
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