This week Telent is supporting British Science Week, a ten-day celebration of all things STEM. Telent has around 40 STEM ambassadors around the business and today is your chance to get to know Maddy Wright-King, Apprentice Project Engineer in Transport.
Tell us about your current role at Telent and how you came to be in it…
I work on the NRTS project as an Apprentice Project Engineer. My day-to-day role includes writing safety-critical paperwork, going to site to have a look at the technology we’re installing and ensuring that the work we’re carrying out is completed to a high standard, all with the support of my manager.
I came to Telent as I wanted a career change, but I also wanted to work in a supportive environment with values I could identify with. I’ve always been told the world is my oyster and I strive to be the best I can be. I have a real sense of purpose in my role and feel valued within my team.
Tell us a little bit about your previous background…
In my previous role I was working as Cabin Crew for British Airways. I loved that every day was different and being exposed to new experiences and opportunities. In any role I’ve undertaken I’ve always strived to work hard and be pushed out of my comfort zone. I feel this is when I achieve the most!
What interested you about a STEM career?
I became interested in a STEM career as I loved the idea of always being a problem solver in a fast-changing environment within a large team.
Why did you choose your STEM field? Were you inspired by someone?
I chose NRTS as my STEM field as it fulfils what I wanted mentally from a job. It’s hard work but I thoroughly enjoy it. I was inspired by my husband and family as I’ve always grown up with hard work being the motto to having a happy and successful life. My husband is a Structural Engineer and I always enjoy hearing his excitement when he talks about what he’s working on and I wanted this for myself!
What have you found challenging about being in a STEM environment?
I find a lot of the work is challenging as it isn’t what I expect but I am enjoying working through the challenges and adding more strings to my bow.
What’s unique about working as a woman in STEM at Telent?
I don’t think anything is unique about being a woman in a STEM project as I believe that we’re all equal but being ‘a woman in a man’s world’ is great! Nothing is an issue, and everyone wants to help. There’s always support as you will never be the first or the last to do a certain task and that’s quite comforting.
What advice would you give to a colleague considering a STEM career?
My advice would be to start with no expectations, wide eyes, and patience as there is lots to learn. Take everything in your stride and don’t be afraid to ask questions as you’ll be treated as part of the family – there’s no such thing as a silly question.
What inspirational message would you give young girls to inspire them to pursue a career in STEM?
I would say don’t worry. There are many girls within this career path, and it will open many doors for your future.