Shauna

Team Leader and Deputy Design Manager

How long have you worked at AWE?
5 years

Why did you choose AWE?
I chose AWE because it presented a great challenge.

What were your expectations?
At sixth form I struggled to find any particular subject to fit my wide-ranging interests.  I was arty but enjoyed maths and making things.  It was only when I was asked to join an engineering outreach design challenge at my sixth form and was surprised that I did quite well that I had thought about engineering. I was encouraged and researched more about ‘what engineers do’ before realising that it was something that I wanted to pursue.

Tell us about your time at AWE?- What do you do?
I have had a great career at AWE, my first two years were on the Production Engineering Graduate Scheme.  I am currently on secondment in Warhead Engineering, before this I was a Manufacturing Engineering Manager.

What’s the best thing about your job?
During my time at AWE I have been very lucky to move around the business and work with excellent people.  It’s an exciting time to be an engineer at AWE, with new facilities coming online and a demanding programme, we must be innovative and create new ways of working to ensure we deliver.

How do you see your career progressing?
I finish my secondment in a year. It’s been really great to learn about another part of our business.

Why are days such as International Day of Women in Engineering Day so important?
Celebrations like International Women in Engineering Day are important as the ambition is to influence anyone who is interested in getting involved in Engineering to do so.  Initiatives like INWED show that it is an archaic view to think that you must conform to any stereotype to be an engineer!

Who inspired you to become an engineer?
I have two, Leonardo di Vinci and my Dad.  Both worked as military engineers; however, one is better known for his artwork.  My Dad is a tremendous influence and role model.

Why is gender equality and diversity so important to our industry?        
Diversity incorporates different views, thoughts and ideas that help us solve problems.  Problem solving is a core characteristic of a great engineer.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming an engineer?
Challenge yourself!