What is your background?

I have a mechanical engineering background, completing both my bachelors and PhD degrees here at the University of Nottingham. After completion of my PhD I worked for several years in the Computer Science department at Nottingham working on automated design tools for CAD systems for industrial embroidery machines. Following the birth of my daughter, who had various health issues, I worked from home as a self-employed software engineer for thirteen years. I returned to academia in 2009 to a research role combining my software engineering and composite materials expertise, responsible for the development of open source software TexGen. 

Tell us about your job?

I am an Assistant Professor in Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering with both research and teaching roles. My main teaching activity is teaching Computer Engineering in the Computer Engineering and Mechatronics module, as well as design tutoring, project supervision and personal tutoring. My research is centred around modelling of textiles and textile composites and I still run the TexGen software project. 

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

Support from the professional community has been invaluable. I am a professional member of the BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT and have been a committee member of BCSWomen for about 15 years. The Research Software Engineering community has grown enormously in recent years and the network is great for finding help and advice.

What advice would you give to aspiring women in engineering?

Don’t underestimate what you are capable of. Take a deep breath, work your way through things and be prepared to ask for help when you need it. Most people are friendly and more than happy to help!