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News: International Women’s Day 2023

Please note: This news story may contain information that is no longer current or up to date.
Happy International Women's Day
Happy International Women's Day

We’re really proud to celebrate the increasing number of females breaking gender stereotypes and pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated industries such as engineering, construction and the automotive sector, as well as the lecturers and curriculum staff who inspire them daily!

We caught up with some of our learners who have kick-started their future and are studying courses to enter into these industries. They share their advice and an insight on their experiences.

Holly - automotive apprentice

19-year-old Holly works as an automotive apprentice. She told us how, although she was nervous at first, she has had fantastic support and looks forward to her future working in the automotive industry. 

Holly smiling

I chose an apprenticeship with Nottingham College because I wanted the hands-on learning, as well as getting paid to work in the trade. Everyone has been really supportive and and really pushing me to do more . At work I have my own mentor and he’s been brilliant. 

My advice to women in this role is to not be nervous or intimidated. I know I was when I first started but now that I’m here, it’s actually amazing if that’s what you want to do. 

Holly — Multi skilled Repair Technician

Isabel - Joinery student

After deciding on a complete career change, Isabel swapped her management career for a joinery course and hasn’t looked back. 

Isabel smiling

I went for a complete career change, I used to do management in financial services and complaints. Over lockdown I had a child and completely decided to change what I did. I wanted to do something more practical and I’ve always liked the idea of making things with wood. 

The advice I would give to a female that’s interested in the course is to come along. I’ve really enjoyed it and never noticed any differences with how I’ve been treated, I’ve met some really supportive people. 

Isabel — Construction and Joinery

Chloe - joinery student.

Chloe also studies joinery. She tells us how studying with us has given her the confidence to succeed.

Chloe smiling

I chose this course because it’s very hands on and I wanted to choose a career path that was very practical. I enjoy the creativity you can have and the range of things you can make. 

Everyone on my course is really friendly and my tutor helps to show me that I can do it and gives me the confidence to be able to succeed in my course. 

Chloe — Construction and Joinery

We also spoke to some of our lecturers and curriculum staff on why they think it’s important to get more women into these roles and how it feels inspiring like minded women.

As a female lecturer and PhD researcher, I believe it is important that we continue to close the gender gap in job roles, particularly in male-dominated industries like Science. I feel that I contribute to this effort by inspiring my students to continue on a career in Science through sharing my experiences as a woman in STEM and my passion for my subject. 

Emma Hook — Lecturer of Forensic and Applied Science

I’m a college Principal. It took decades for women to break through to senior roles in my sector, and many in the vanguard in the 1990s felt they had to mimic male traits to be credible. In fact, we don’t have to do this at all. We can be ourselves, be authentic, be women – and succeed on our own terms. 

Janet Smith — CEO/​Principal, Nottingham College

Grace Kerry - Engineering

Grace enjoyed engineering based subjects at school and chose to join us so she could study an engineering specific course. Although nervous at first, Grace has become much more confident and thanks to the support of her tutors and classmates, is inspired to pursue a career in the engineering industry. 

Grace in the Engineering Workshop

I enjoyed engineering-based subjects at school and knew it was an area I’d love to work in in the future. There aren’t many females in this industry at the moment but it’s great that there’s a group of us on my course this year! There’s so many options for me to progress here and once I finish my current course; I’d love to complete an apprenticeship because I’m a very practical based learner. 

 — Grace Kerry, Engineering

Our new £400,000 centre for decarbonisation of vehicles has launched!

In March 2023 we revealed we were launching a new £400,000 centre at our Emtec campus for advancements in automotive engineering. The women involved in the launch of our new centre were proud to showcase our brand new fleet of EV and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, which now provide training opportunities for all those looking to join this ever evolving industry. 

Group photo stood infront of electric cars and motorcycle.
Back row left to right: Lindsey Smith, Maxine Blake, Joanne Smith. Front row: Lisa Wilson (left) and Janet Smith (right).

At Nottingham College we are here to support you every step of the way! Our diverse range of courses and entry points (from entry level through to degree level) as well as distance learning, hybrid and online options means that whatever you want to do and whatever your circumstances, we have something for you.

You’re in great hands too. Our student support, wellbeing programmes and dedicated teams of Wellbeing Mentors, Pastoral Tutors and Wellbeing Team are here to ensure you are supported throughout your time with us.

By embracing equity through a range of different courses, starting points and wealth of student support, Nottingham College is helping to ensure that education is accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstance.

Published on:
  • 8th March 2023 (9:41 AM)
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