Job Title: Metalworking Formulation Chemist
Company: ROCOL
What is your background and how did you come to be in your present role?
I took a degree apprenticeship programme through ROCOL and the University of Bradford. There I was able to gain my degree and finish my apprenticeship through the company. This resulted in me being offered the role of metalworking formulation chemist. I’ve been here five years now.
What has been your greatest challenge so far in your career?
My greatest challenge was completing my degree while working full-time. Both elements had deadlines to meet and projects to work on simultaneously – which was difficult to juggle.
More recently, I’ve grown the confidence to put my hand up in difficult situations. I’m currently working with schools to promote STEM and I’ve been volunteering to conduct assemblies with them. It has put me out of my comfort zone but has been rewarding.
What has been your greatest achievement so far in your career?
During my final year at university, my dissertation was based on organic chemistry, allowing me to produce a base technology for the next generation of metalworking fluids. It’s the first time that ROCOL has done this, making it a huge achievement for me.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell myself that the hard work pays off. I studied a lot during my degree and apprenticeship, often putting other things to one side to be able to get to where I am right now. When starting at ROCOL I was one of the only woman chemists but I didn’t let that get me down. I would encourage my younger self to keep going and push through.
How do you think we can raise the profile of careers in STEM?
We need to create strong relationships with local schools. Manufacturers and engineers do not always understand the impact that we can have on children until we speak to them and see their eyes light up. I’ve spoken in schools and the children think what we do is so cool; unfortunately most don’t know that the sector is even an option available to them.
I also believe as technology grows and expands, companies need to have a larger social media presence. Every day I see more young people creating profiles on LinkedIn to see what’s out there. Having a good social media platform with engaging content is key to attracting people to the sector.
What is your favourite engineered/manufactured product?
I’m a cyclist and there are bicycles being made right now from a combination of bamboo and steel. They are expensive, but ultimately more sustainable due to the combining of both materials. I really like that idea.
Please give one interesting fact about yourself that not many people know.
The week of Smart Manufacturing Week and SUBCON, I’m taking part in an Iron Man. That means I’m speaking at a session, attending the Top 100 Awards on the Wednesday evening, attending the show on the Thursday and then competing in the Iron Man on the Sunday!
You don’t really have time to breathe when it comes to training. I’m either in the pool, on my bike, running or eating. But the number of endorphins that are rushing around my body all the time is great; I’m always in a good mood.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in manufacturing?
I would tell them that it probably isn’t what they stereotypically think manufacturing is. The idea that its male dominated and dirty is not the case. Many factories are spotless and have men and women working side by side.
The manufacturing sector is so rewarding to be involved in. You can be part of the innovation of next generation products, and your voice and ideas will be heard, no matter your age.
