What is your background?

I joined the University of Nottingham as an Assistant Professor in July 2022 as the first full-time member of teaching staff dedicated to our newly formed Electro-mechanical Engineer Degree Level Apprenticeship. Prior to this I completed my MEng in Mechanical Engineering and PhD in Large-Scale Additive Manufacturing at the University of Warwick.

I have always had an interest in engineering and design and love to get involved with making and tinkering. In my spare time I am designing, creating and 3D printing everything from useful gadgets to board game accessories. Having established a small maker space and “Maker club” at the University of Nottingham, I am passionate about encouraging all students and the community to explore design and making.

Tell us about your job

My current role is a mix of teaching (what I love) and organisation - also what I love. My teaching consists of mainly the mechanical side of our programme with a particular enthusiasm for the design side. I lead three modules on the programme – “Mechanics and Design”, “Materials and Manufacturing”, and “BEng project". I also support various other modules.

As Programme Director I coordinate various aspects of pastoral care for our apprentices, conduct teaching reviews, ensure that the programme adheres to all compliance requirements, and help with strategic planning of the programme and its vision into the future. I love teaching on this programme and the reward I see from the apprentices learning and developing themselves is incredible.

What kind of support have you found helpful in advancing your career?

Working with a great team has really supported me both during my PhD where I was experiencing huge imposter syndrome. The support from my research group helped me push through and achieve my goals. My team now in this teaching role helps me progress and realise my potential.

What advice would you give to aspiring women in engineering?

My advice to aspiring women in engineering is to not be afraid to try, either you will succeed or you will fail and you can learn from it – just like in Design! Don’t be afraid to speak out and go for what you want in life – it took me a while to realise this and without that realisation I would not be where I am today.