In recognition of International Women’s Day, Life throws the spotlight on women working in exciting STEM jobs in the North East. We caught up with Sophie Atkinson, a project management degree apprentice at aerospace company Airbus, who also takes part in Life’s ‘I’m a Scientist’ programme, which gives schoolchildren the opportunity to talk to scientists, share their personal stories of their love of science and how it created career opportunities for them in the field.
My interest in science started early – I really liked doing experiments in primary school and basically anything to do with science. They were definitely the most interesting lessons.
Also, when anyone asked my what I wanted for birthday or Christmas, I would always ask for science kits to grow diamonds, make bath bombs etc.
I suppose I was lucky in that my school was good at encouraging girls to get involved in science although quite often I was the only girl at the science clubs.
Then in secondary school I was invited to a lot of women in STEM events and listening to successful women in STEM talk about their careers was really inspiring.
After my GCSEs I went on to study 3 A levels at college before starting my degree apprenticeship, which I am now in my 2nd year.
I love working in the defence and space industry as it’s so interesting and I enjoy how every day is different and that I am constantly learning. I get to see some really cool things, such as how a satellite is built, or images of the earth in high resolution.
Looking ahead I want to finish my apprenticeship and become a successful project manager in this industry.
I think it is extremely important to encourage more girls and women into science. Based on personal experience, going to Women in STEM events was a great way to see examples of what is achievable and an opportunity to talk with women who work in these industries is invaluable.