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• What are your top tips for a 12–14-year-old girl interested in a career in engineering?

Follow your passion. If you think it’s not engineering-related, research it, as it probably is! Go with what you love doing. You’ll have a more fulfilled life if your career is doing something that you enjoy.

• In your experience, what unique perspective or qualities do you think females bring to the field of engineering?

I think the quiet confidence that females bring to engineering is important. If you have the skills and knowledge, eventually, you will become more confident within yourself and your role. Don’t be afraid if you are an introvert, Engineering as a discipline will value your opinion. Females can also multitask more easily and bring a different perspective to problem-solving.

• Can you share a specific moment in your career that made you realise the impact you could have as a female engineer, especially in encouraging young girls to consider engineering?

I attended a Smallpeice Trust STEM Day at a local school and immediately realised the impact that my career could have on young girls. Young girls need to see more female role models in engineering positions so that they recognise that they can also have a career in engineering. Also, males tend to want their ideas and thinking to be progressed over others, whereas females are more analytical and make decisions based on facts, not on ego. A more diverse workforce across the engineering sector most definitely benefits all.

• What top 3 skills would you say you need to succeed as an engineer?

  • An analytical approach to problem solving

  • Brilliant attention to detail

  • A passion and desire that YOU can make a difference

• Could you share your insight into a day at SC Johnson?

This morning, I came into the office to an email highlighting an issue with a supplied component, which then kick-started the process of me instigating a route cause analysis. This means that I must investigate the heart of the problem and develop a solution that works. Later, I will look at a new pack format with newly developed materials that we are looking to launch in approximately three years. Finally, I look at products currently being tested and start analysing the results. Just another day at SC Johnson!

Emily has been with SC Johnson for nine years, with over 20 years of experience in engineering. She studied Applied Arts at the University of Derby.