What do you do
The ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is a particle accelerator that has multiple instrument types to perform scientific experiments with neutrons and muons. Science could be focused around battery technology, archaeological artefacts, resistance to cosmic radiation, liquid formulations and more.
I am part of the Sample Environment group in the Design Division, where we take the scientific requirements from the scientists and design a solution that fits within the sample area of the instrument. I am the Project Manager and Designer for these projects, managing contributions from other teams if needed. Each project varies and can be complex due to the requirement to consider one or multiple of these engineering challenges: vacuum, high pressure, cryogenic temperatures, high temperatures, fluid flow, material neutron transparency, and radioactive activation of materials. To be able to tackle some of these challenges, I perform calculations or FEA simulations, complying with standards where appropriate.
What inspired you to be an engineer?
Engineering was brought to my attention during school careers talks as Physics was one of my favourite subjects at school, and I achieved good grades in Maths. I always had a curious mind, wanting to know how things worked, so it felt like the right path. I loved Design and Technology at GCSE and wanted to try to study engineering at university.
I was unsure which industry I would want to go into - as there are so many - and I didn’t want to eliminate options by choosing a specific engineering course, so I chose Mechanical Engineering to keep as many options open as possible. The first couple of years at university were challenging, but once I hit my third and fourth year, I loved studying engineering and knew I wanted to continue to find a career in it.
Why did you become a Chartered Engineer with the IMechE?
I became a Student Member when I was at university as my course was IMechE accredited. During my placement year, I was recommended to apply for EngTech by the company, which I achieved successfully.
I wanted to become a Chartered Engineer because I knew I could get professional recognition of my skills. By being on the MPDS scheme I could start my journey during my university industrial placement year, and I’ve found it was ideal to guide my development. I could also access the IMechE Library, which has been useful during my role.
How has being a Chartered Engineer helped your career?
Being a Student Member when I started university helped me gain Chartership a year earlier because I could use my placement year as part of the MPDS scheme. This therefore progressed my starting point in the scheme when I started my graduate role. I’ve only just become Chartered, so I can’t say how it has helped my career yet, but I know it can help you progress your career by showing the skills you have. I have already seen an increase in LinkedIn interest on my profile since I posted about my Chartership.
What are your top member benefits?
For my current role the Library is the benefit I most utilise, as I can access textbooks and resources that my workplace library does not have access to. I also really enjoy the benefit of the Professional Engineering magazine, as I can follow news and developments in other areas of engineering outside my role.
Since finishing the MPDS scheme, and achieving Chartership, I plan to start using the Career Developer tool where I can track and monitor my CPD activities. It is an ideal tool independent of your work to monitor and track your development.
What are your career aspirations?
I hope to start mentoring and line managing but also continue to develop my knowledge and skills related to the projects at the facility. I don’t know at this stage how far I want to move into management as I love the problem solving and designing, but I also like sharing knowledge and improving processes. I’m sure I’ll find a balance as I progress in my career and role.
Find out more about becoming a Chartered Engineer.