Yempabou took a career break of over a year after leaving the Oil and Gas sector. Like many returners, Yempabou used this time to learn new skills and keep up to date with industry.
After a successful returners programme with Leonardo, Yempabou has accepted a permanent position as a Project Engineering Lead.
Here is Yempabou story:
Tell us a little bit about you.
I am a Chartered Process Engineer with over 10 years’ experience working within the Oil and Gas sector in the UK and significant international experience.
I joined the STEM Returners programme after a short career break from the Oil and Gas industry. I was excited to join Leonardo UK, one of the market leaders in the defence, aerospace and security sectors, as a Project Engineering Lead.
I enjoy travelling, reading and spending quality time with my family.
What was your working background before your career break?
I worked in the Oil and Gas industry for a number of years as a Chemical Engineer.
Tell us about your career break. Why did you take a break? How long was it for?
I had a career break during the downturn experienced by the Oil & Gas for approximately 12-18months. I took that opportunity to diversify my career by learning new skills such as project management, business and entrepreneurship.
What made you want to return to the industry?
After working for a number of years as a chemical engineer, I decided to work in an industry that could offer long term career growth. I applied for a position in engineering management as a Project Engineer Lead to develop new skills in managing people and projects.
What challenges have you faced when applying for roles? How did those challenges make you feel?
The greatest challenge when I changed my career path was to learn and develop new skills such as learning and developing new technologies, taking on roles outside my comfort zone, and managing people by setting clear goals and objectives.
Why did you approach STEM Returners?
I had been looking for a career change for a while in order to develop new skills in management, and the STEM Returners programme allowed me that opportunity.
How did STEM Returners help?
The 3 months STEM Returners programme was the perfect platform to transition into a new career. As part of the STEM Returners programme I had a mentor assigned to me within the company to guide me in my new role.
I went through a structured programme which included training on the job, understanding company processes and procedures, and project engineering management training.
If you would like to register your interest in joining a STEM Returners programme, please visit Returner Registration – STEM Returners or view our current programme opportunities here.