As we mark the official launch of the Gloucestershire STEM Network on ‘International Women in Engineering Day’ we asked Nicole Saunders, Senior Consultant to share her story about her career to date, and explain how she is currently helping to encourage and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
I joined Osprey in November
2016 following a 16 year career as Fast Jet aircrew in the RAF, and an even earlier career as a physics teacher. Since joining the company I’ve been presented with some really exciting and challenging opportunities which have allowed me to use the full breadth of my STEM experience.
One of the first tasks I was given was to conduct an air safety assessment on the operation of a High Altitude Unmanned Air Vehicle. I’ve also been able to use my flying experience to inform a piece of work looking at helicopter operations at offshore windfarms.
Only this week, I was asked to share my Bowtie risk management expertise through a series of presentations to staff at the Ministry of Defence as part of their annual Safety Day. You can read my blog about Bowtie Analysis here.
I’m also a STEM Ambassador and an active member of The IET. During Cheltenham Science Festival I project managed the IET exhibition stand and made sure there were plenty of volunteers available, including some of my colleagues from Osprey to speak to young people about the opportunities available through a STEM career path.
Over the past 6 months I’ve been involved in establishing the Gloucestershire STEM Network whose mission is to provide a local STEM network that supports women, from classroom to boardroom and I’m extremely proud to be speaking at the official launch event that is taking place today (23rd June).
Overall, I’ve found a career in STEM to be interesting, varied and challenging and working in the aviation sector has allowed me to work on many exciting opportunities. I’m proud to be an engineer and to share my story with you today.
Share your story #whatsyourstory
