Irene joined the STEM Returners Programme with Amey Consulting after wishing to transition into different industry, read below to find out more about Irene’s experience of the STEM returners programme:
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOU (Where you are from, your education and interests)
My background is Mechanical Engineering. I like gardening and learning new things.
WHAT IS YOUR WORKING BACKGROUND? IF YOU LIKE TELL US ABOUT YOUR CAREER BREAK
Before my career break, I was a stress engineer and test engineer in the aerospace industry and the automotive industry respectively, and I have done some technical translation as well.
WHAT BARRIERS HAVE YOU FACED WHEN APPLYING FOR ROLES?
During Covid, I wanted a career that supports net zero initiative, and it was not easy transitioning to a new industry.
WHY DID YOU APPROACH STEM RETURNERS?
I wanted some help to transition into different industry and job role.
HOW DID STEM RETURNERS HELP?
They contacted me with suitable positions, I also applied to the suitable ones from the website. Claire (STEM Returners Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Lead) put my application in with a note to see if Amey Consulting has any suitable role for me which’s not been advertised on the website.
WHAT WAS THE END RESULT?
I was called to have an interview with Amey Consulting for an assistant engineer role.
HOW HAS THIS CHANGED YOUR CAREER?
I work in a different industry and a different role.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ABOUT THE PROGRAMME OVERALL?
They assigned a mentor and buddy for me, and I get a lot of guidance doing my work. I enjoy everyday working for them.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR RETURNERS LIKE YOURSELF?
Take a break if it gets tough but don’t give in, something suitable may be around the corner.