Every year, International Women in Engineering Day shines a spotlight on the achievements of women across the engineering profession while encouraging more young women to explore the opportunities available within the industry.
At Accura Engineering, we recognise that building a stronger future for manufacturing means investing in people. We are committed to creating opportunities for professional development, supporting career progression and ensuring that talented individuals can develop the skills needed to thrive in engineering, regardless of their background.
One example of this commitment is Olivia, who is currently balancing her role as an Account Manager at Accura with studying for a Manufacturing Engineering degree.
Developing Skills Through Real-World Experience
For Olivia, the decision to pursue a manufacturing engineering degree was inspired by the exposure she gained through her role at Accura.
“Working alongside the manufacturing engineering team and the machining operators at Accura showed me the versatility of this career, from learning to optimise production components to manufacturing high risk-high precision parts. This really interested me, as I have always known I like every day to be different when I come into work.”
Her role has provided valuable insight into the complete manufacturing process, helping her understand how engineering, production, quality and customer service work together to deliver successful outcomes.
“Also, working as an Account Manager you are exposed to all aspects of a job when it comes into Accura, from quotation to quality pass off and a manufacturing engineering degree was the key to understanding each of these stages.”
The combination of academic learning and practical workplace experience has enabled Olivia to apply new knowledge directly to her day-to-day responsibilities.
“Being able to continue my professional growth in my current role whilst also learning more technical information on day release at university has been a great balance to apply the off the job learning every day.”
Building Knowledge and Confidence
One of the most rewarding aspects of Olivia’s studies has been gaining a deeper understanding of engineering drawings and component design.
“I have really enjoyed the modelling modules completed this year – it’s been great getting to understand technical drawings better and being able to visualise completed components from 2D drawings that I come across daily as an Account Manager.”
By supporting employees through further education and professional development opportunities, Accura helps team members broaden their knowledge, strengthen their technical capabilities and continue progressing their careers.
Encouraging More Women Into Engineering
While engineering has historically been viewed as a male-dominated industry, the sector continues to evolve. More women than ever are building successful careers across manufacturing, design, production, quality and leadership roles.
Olivia believes that positive workplace cultures and greater visibility of career opportunities are helping to drive this change.
“I have always worked in an environment at Accura where being a woman in engineering is not an exception and this is becoming more the case in engineering companies across the country.”
For young women considering a future in engineering, she encourages gaining hands-on experience to discover the wide variety of opportunities available.
“If you are interested in engineering, I would recommend getting work experience in an SME like Accura, where you are exposed to all sides of the business and find out which area of engineering you are most interested in!”
Looking Ahead
International Women in Engineering Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women across the sector, but it is also a reminder of the importance of continuing to develop future talent.
At Accura Engineering, we are proud to support employees like Olivia as they build their skills, expand their knowledge and shape the future of engineering. By investing in learning, development and career progression, we are helping to create an industry that is more diverse, innovative and equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
