A Bit About Me

I became interested in engineering aged 12 when I began volunteering on a preserved steam railway in Wales, at 14 I began working in the engine sheds and was hooked. This love of science, engineering and design has stayed with me and I am proud to be an Ambassador for the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and a STEM Ambassador. I am a Member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology and an Associate Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers where I sit on the Heritage Engineering Committee.

I studied mechanical engineering at the University of Nottingham, graduating with an MEng(Hons) in 2007. I began as a post-graduate research student at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR) later that year. Whilst carrying out my research I presented my work at international conferences and became involved with the Outreach work of the ISVR, challenging me to communicate with different audiences.

After two years of full time study I realised that I enjoyed the challenge and reward of public engagement so much that I wanted to increase my involvement in this area. In 2009 I took a job with the Smallpeice Trust, an educational charity, as an Education Officer. I took a leading role in developing engaging projects for schools including the STEM-in-a-Box project which launched in September 2010.

After a fantastic academic year it became clear that I needed to put more time into my research project. Working as a freelance communicator allowed me to continue with my research while still being involved with outreach work. I soon realised that I wanted to know more about education and so I decided to apply for a research project in engineering education. This research will increase the links between science and engineering engagement and improve our understanding of engineering education.

In my free time I enjoy walking, cricket, reading and photography. Contact me for further information.