Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group inspires next generation of female engineers
Falmouth-based Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group (WMFTG) celebrated International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) through a partnership with Goonhilly Earth Station.
INWED, the annual global initiative which celebrates and raises the profile of female engineers within the industry, driven by the Women’s Engineering Society took place on 23rd June.
Prior to this event, WMFTG invited 62 local primary school children to Goonhilly Earth Station to take part in two science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) activities as well as a site tour of Goonhilly.
One of the activities saw students using using WMFTG’s pumps to dose the right amount of ‘rocket fuel’ that will be used to propel a 3D model space shuttle.
Rachel Pallett, sales director for Europe, Middle East and Africa at Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group, said: “International Women in Engineering Day presents an important opportunity to rebalance diversity in the workplace; and this must start with inspiring younger generations. As women only make up around 12% of the UK’s engineering and technology workforce*, companies like ours must do all we can to promote engineering and STEM roles as exciting, inclusive, and rewarding careers. There are incredible opportunities out there for female engineering and technology professionals; the sky is the limit.”
A networking event has also been organised which will be attended by local council representatives, teachers, WMFTG employees and STEM enthusiasts.
Positive role models
An impressive line-up of inspirational figures spoke at the event and discussed their career history and roles in the industry as well as how they think we can transform the future.
Melissa Thorpe, head of Business Engagement and Outreach for Spaceport Cornwall spoke at the event. Melissa has been involved in this ambitious project to deliver safe and low-cost access to space by 2020 since its inception in 2014. A key aspect of the Spaceport Cornwall project is to inspire a generation of young people to take up STEM subjects.
A keynote speech was also delivered by Lucy Edge, chief operating officer of the Satellite Applications Catapult. With a background in physics and engineering, Lucy is responsible for supporting enterprises across the UK in understanding and exploiting the potential of space and satellites to create opportunities and transform businesses. Lucy’s career has involved the launch of satellites that provide communication for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and building a satellite operations centre in West Cornwall.
WMFTG’s own Dr Sade Mokuolu, group product compliance manager at the company shared stories from her own impressive professional journey.
Also offering her perspective was Jane Kingston, who for many years served as group human resources director for Compass Group. Jane has worked in a variety of sectors, including roles with Blue Circle Industries, Enodis and Coats Viyella and has significant international experience.
Finally, Trudy Schoolenberg addressed the audience. Trudy has served in high-profile senior management roles at AkzoNobel, Wärtsilä Oy, Royal Dutch Shell plc and Shell Chemicals.
*Statistic from Engineering UK