The School of Engineering is dedicated to the promotion of diversity within our discipline. On 23 June 2020, the School celebrated Women in Engineering Day by sharing the stories of some of our successful graduates.
AMY CONNELLY
Graduated MEng in Petroleum Engineering
Why did you choose to study engineering?
In school I loved STEM subjects and when engineering was suggested to me as a degree choice it sounded the perfect combination of what I enjoyed. Choosing a degree in engineering has allowed me to continually challenge myself and has opened up so many exciting career paths.
Which engineering field (sector) did you choose to work in? What do you enjoy most about it?
I will be going into the Energy industry to work as a graduate well engineer. This will see me help plan offshore well operations both onshore and offshore and allow me to travel to different locations globally.
What does a typical day in your job involve?
As part of the graduate programme I will have the opportunity to take the knowledge I have gained at university and apply it in a practical industry setting. I will be able to see first-hand how important the technical basis we gain at university is implemented and used. The graduate programme will see me undergo training, learning, gain offshore and onshore workplace exposure and help me develop into a senior engineer.
What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of working in engineering?
The most rewarding aspect of engineering is that every day you are pushing yourself and defining new personal and team boundaries. Every day you are faced with new challenges or problems to solve and being able to work as part of a team, or individually in some cases, to solves these is really exciting and a very empowering and rewarding feeling once the end result is obtained.
Do you have any advice for girls/women who are considering studying engineering?
For any females considering going into engineering, I say 'go for it'. There are so many different disciples within engineering and with that so many amazing career opportunities. Engineering is diverse, however it is becoming more so every day as more and more women join. Don't be put off by stereotypes, there is far more too engineering and there are opportunities for everyone. If you love challenging yourself and want a career where every day is different and every day you're learning - engineering could be perfect for you.
During her time at Aberdeen, Amy carried out two summer internships with Equinor.
“This experience was invaluable at helping me to develop professionally and gain an insight into what 'life as an engineer' was really like. Carrying out internships and work experience are a great way to find out what you enjoy, and what you might not enjoy, so you can pursue the career best suited to you. During these internships I was given real projects that had to be delivered to the team, had the opportunity to go on several site visits and also got a trip over to Norway to learn more about to company”. Amy also was awarded top prize at the Society of Petroleum Engineers Bursary Awards.
ROEDERER ROSE LYNE
Graduated MEng in Mechanical Engineering
Rose was the recipient of the 2019 recipient of the principles award for excellence.
Why did you choose to study engineering?
My father, grandfather and several before them were engineers and it was always around when I was growing up as I lived next to a navy base. I was lucky enough to go on some engineering summer courses for secondary pupils that really helped cement the idea that that was what I wanted to do
Which engineering field (sector) did you choose to work in? What do you enjoy most about it?
I am an Energy and Emissions Engineer for Advisian (Worley) and work primarily for the oil and gas sector to help them reduce their emissions and improve efficiency. I love that my job does not pigeonhole me into only one type of project! I have worked on decommissioning projects, power generation studies and even investigated new technologies that could help end energy poverty in Africa!
What does a typical day in your job involve?
Because my projects are so varied, no day is really the same! Some days I am looking at engineering drawings to try and locate a specific pump, while on others I could be providing engineering theory backing to calculation software being developed. Currently I am analysing energy data for over 200 sites to help create a carbon emissions baseline so the company can see their improvements over the coming years
What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of working in engineering?
Being able to see your work in the completed project is really satisfying. The ability to work internationally is always exciting as you get exposed to different cultures and ideas that then help develop and advance your own.
Do you have any advice for girls/women who are considering studying engineering?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and constantly push yourself! I wouldn’t have gotten the experiences I have now if I didn’t push myself and trusted in my abilities. Try and attend some engineering courses as they are a great way to see what sort of engineering you are interested in.
GEORGINA ANDREW
BEng Civil Engineering Graduate Apprentice
Why did you choose to study engineering?
At Secondary School I studied a subject called Engineering Science which allowed me to explore different fields of engineering. I really liked learning about everything in the lessons, but my favourite area was structures and mechanisms. I loved designing things when I was younger and enjoyed maths. I like problem solving and being creative. So, when I realised that Engineering could combine all my interests into one job, I decided that it was what I wanted to study.
Which engineering field (sector) did you choose to work in? What do you enjoy most about it?
I chose to work in Civil Engineering and am currently involved in the consulting sector. The thing I enjoy most about it is the fact that a project or piece of work I’m involved in right now could have a big impact on our lives in the future. I also really enjoy working as part of a team and being able to learn things from more experienced colleagues that I can use in later years.
What does a typical day in your job involve?
A typical day in my job starts around 8am. Throughout the day I work on the tasks assigned to me and these range from specific engineering ones to more general administration jobs although every day involves something different. I also have phone and video calls with others from my team to discuss current issues and plan upcoming work. My workday ends around 4:30pm.
What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of working in engineering?
I think the most rewarding aspect is being able to use your skills/knowledge and be part of a bigger team working towards delivering a final product which will be of benefit to society. It gives you a sense of satisfaction that the work you are doing is making a difference, no matter how big or small.
Do you have any advice for girls/women who are considering studying engineering?
My advice would be to trust your judgement and if you think you would like Engineering then to go for it! Don’t be put off by the fact that in years gone by it has been a largely male dominated field to work in because I think that I show along with many other women that we can be just as successful if not more successful than males in this sector. Always work hard and enjoy what you do.
