Hayley joined the STEM Returners programme as a Systems Engineer with Thales and was made a permanent member of their team after the 12 week programme. Congratulations on your permanent role at Thales, Hayley!
How did you find out about the STEM Returners Programme?
I saw an advert while doing a job search.
Tell us a little bit about your experience before joining the Programme
Prior to joining the programme I had been with GE Aviation for 7 years working various roles including Systems Engineer, Reliability Engineer and Programme Management. My degree is in Mechanical and Power Plant Systems. I was stuck back home in Scotland during the pandemic and when my work offered voluntary redundancy I took it as being back in Scotland made me want to move back closer to family. That was not the best time to be looking for a job so took a role locally in a High School but after a year and once everything started to pick up again I wanted to go back into engineering.
Why did you apply for the Thales Returners Programme?
It can be daunting going to a new job but even more so going back after some time away, you worry if you will remember everything, if you are still able to work at the standard you did before and how you will adjust to the work environment again.
When I saw the ad for STEM Returners I felt a sense of relief because it is something for people specifically in that situation so there is the support and understanding on both sides, that there may be a longer adjustment period and additional support needed.
How do you feel about the support offered by Thales as a company?
Thales did a great job at understanding and supporting the transition. Providing a mentor within the project and realistic goal and expectations from the outset. Thales also has a unique online learning to support everything you need to become familiar with the company and its systems.
What has happened since joining the Programme?
Since joining the programme I have been offered a permanent position.
What advice would you give to someone trying to return from a career break?
I would highly recommend STEM Returners to anyone returning after a career break. Not only does it support the transition back into STEM but it also provides access to the top companies.