Can you tell us about your background and what led you to pursue a career in STEM?
I followed my interests in school, I really liked maths and science, and as I narrowed down my options from GCSE to A-level, I focused on maths, biology, chemistry, and physics. I was torn between two options: computer science and electrical and electronic engineering.
I don’t have any family members who are engineers, and I’m the first in my family to go to university. Because I didn’t have any frame of reference or really know what the industry looked like—since there was nobody around me in engineering—I chose electrical engineering as a degree because it’s so broad. It felt like the best option since there were so many career paths available after graduation. I stumbled my way through it, just narrowing it down based on what I was good at each stage.
What has been your biggest challenge as a woman in STEM?
I think it’s changed as I’ve got older because I’ve been in the industry for 10 years now. Initially, it was all new, and I struggled to build working relationships. Quite often, I was the only woman in the entire office or on the factory floor, which made it a bit difficult, especially being a young woman in my early 20s. Building professional relationships and friendships wasn’t as organic for me as it was for the men, who would go to golf or various work events together. I often felt like a spare part, and many times I worried I was doing something wrong or giving the wrong impression by trying to build these working friendships with men in their 40s or 50s.
Additionally, I was trying to be taken seriously and gain the necessary knowledge and expertise. However, quite often, I wasn’t taken seriously because people assumed I was an apprentice, or I’d be at a meeting where someone thought I was the senior engineer’s daughter who’d come to work with him.
What attracted you to join Expleo, and how has your experience been so far?
How has Expleo supported your professional growth and development within the STEM field?
So far, it’s been excellent for me, and I’m currently in the middle of a promotion to a team lead role within my client’s organisation. Our team is expanding all the time. I’ve attended awards, dinners, and industry events, and received plenty of training. With new clients coming on board constantly, you’re always building your skill set and cross-training.
I’ve found this really invigorating because, in engineering, you have the opportunity to get into new and emerging technologies, with the support of the wider Expleo business. If I’m confused, I can rely on my colleagues’ vast knowledge base and resources, which has been exciting.
Can you describe a particularly rewarding project or achievement you've had while working at Expleo?
How would you describe the company culture at Expleo, particularly in terms of inclusivity and support for women in STEM?
What does visibility, support and recognition mean to you at Expleo?
It means a lot because not everyone starts from the same place. We send people out to clients who have their own company cultures, which sometimes aren’t as inclusive or supportive as Expleo. Knowing you have that support and backbone from Expleo is very reassuring. I’ve found that support network invaluable, especially with initiatives like the Women@Expleo. It’s comforting to know you can return to your home base, chat, get support, and recognise that some challenges might be unique to you, and they value the extra effort it takes because you’re coming from a different background.
Seeing that you can climb the ladder without facing a glass ceiling is incredibly valuable. It reassures you that your time and effort in your career won’t go unnoticed or be held back.
How do you see your future at Expleo, and what are your career aspirations within the company?
What advice would you give to other women considering a career in STEM, especially those looking to join Expleo?
It’s crucial to engage women at a young age because it’s challenging to place them later. While it’s great to have goals and opportunities to support women, if they aren’t advancing educationally, they won’t be available to hire.
I like to be involved with the STEM ambassador that runs here in Northern Ireland and trying to show the young women that these options are available to you and you’re just as good as anyone else. Believe in yourself.
LIFE AT EXPLEO
Be Yourself
Providing an inclusive, accessible environment, where all employees feel valued and supported. We want you to be the best version of yourself and we will support you in building a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we live, and an environment to reach your full potential.
