23rd June 2023
We spoke with Senior Systems Engineer at Leonardo – Olivia Freestone to find out more about her role working for one of the UK’s foremost engineering organisations
What’s it like working for a dynamic company like Leonardo?
“Leonardo is a fascinating place to work because we are at the cutting edge of technology. We often get to create things that no-one has made before and in many cases, our products are used to protect our Armed Forces and help them do their job more safely. We have also developed thermal cameras which have been used in BBC documentaries to capture wildlife at night, so there is a very wide range of projects to get involved in!”
What interests you most about your role as a Senior Systems Engineer?
“All systems engineers are different, it’s a very broad role. This means you can’t possibly get bored because on one day you could be writing an algorithm in the lab, the next you could be out in the field testing your equipment on fast jets! It also means that the other engineers you work with will have a diverse range of skills and experiences, which makes for a great team that can accomplish a lot together. You do need to be organised and able to multitask, but you can also choose to specialise in a particular area if it’s your passion.”
What made you decide that you wanted to work for Leonardo?
“I was lucky enough to attend a work experience week that I found through my university a few years ago. Having considered joining the Royal Air Force when I was younger, Leonardo seemed like a great way to contribute to UK Defence, but also have the freedom to explore my own career path. I was also really impressed by how much STEM Outreach the Company does, which is why I get involved in as many events as I can.”
How important are courses such as Leonardo supported - Girls Into Engineering in helping promote STEM subjects to females?
“They are crucial – although things are better than they were a few years ago (I believe you can now do an Engineering GCSE), the E in STEM does not get very much attention at school! I’ve always thought it was strange that it isn’t a mandatory subject like Science and Maths. These courses are a way to show girls just how many different jobs you can do if you study engineering, the world is truly your oyster and you will be amazed how many doors are open to you!”
The Smallpeice Trust is committed to creating new pathways into engineering and helping young people fulfil their potential, especially young females who are currently underrepresented in the wider engineering and STEM sectors.
Our engineering courses are consistently filled by over 50% female and non-binary students, and we’ll continue to work towards our goal of ensuring that we have a better and more inclusive engineering workforce in the years to come.
The Smallpeice Trust is committed to creating new pathways into engineering and helping young people fulfil their potential, especially young females who are currently underrepresented in the wider engineering and STEM sectors.
Our engineering courses are consistently filled by over 50% female and non-binary students, and we’ll continue to work towards our goal of ensuring that we have a better and more inclusive engineering workforce in the years to come.
Visit our Girls Into Engineering course page here.