We are proud to celebrate this year’s international women in engineering day!
Here, women across the Malin Group talk about how they are working to have an impact in their area, or showcase their support for other women, either colleagues, public figures or friends who are leading the charge in promoting equality and tackling issues close to their heart. The Marine Engineering sector continues to be male dominated, however we appreciate that all that work in this area have a role to play in making a change and having their voice.
‘30 years ago after leaving university with an honours degree in BA design, I started in the shipyard in Kvaerner Govan as a trainee paint inspector. At that time , the only women in the yard were cleaners in the offices or cooks in the canteen. I built up my knowledge in the yards and gained Icorr paint inspection accreditation and 10 years later, opened my own Industrial Coatings company CCC in 2002 and have never looked back. I always found it very interesting and challenging working in this industry.‘
Bonnie Lowson, Business Development Manager
‘I love my job and I’m proud of working within HR in the engineering industry. Everyday is different and you get to work with so many talented people across the business, collaborating on different initiatives and projects. I think for woman wanting to get into the industry it can seem quite daunting, however we can make such a big impact in a positive way. My advice for future generations wanting to get into the industry is, never doubt your own capability, don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t know something and always speak your mind if something is not right.’
Jennifer Cowan, Employee Experience and Organisational Development Manager
‘Starting 4 years ago as a Sales & Marketing Assistant, I have recently earned a promotion from working with one company in the Group to becoming Sales Support & Market Insight Executive for the whole Group. Focusing on the use of market data systems, our CMS and Industry Tender Information, I collate business opportunities for a range of services we can offer throughout the Group.
Although not an engineer, I have been able to submerse myself into a highly technical and innovative industry by understanding the specialised markets in which we work. A key part of working in this exciting field of market insight is keeping up to date of new developments, projects, and procurement opportunities. Then liaising with our tendering, business development and technical teams we can discuss and develop future projects and scopes of work.’
Laura Henderson, Sales Support and Market Insight Executive
‘I’ve seen a massive amount of change in the sector over the last decade. Women in all types of roles and all levels of organisation. I’ve found it really inspiring how different perspectives, styles of communication and opportunities to collaborate have been welcomed. I enjoy challenging mindsets and perspectives from those with different professional and personal backgrounds from my own. It means that we look at a challenge from many more angles and find the best solution that helps us win.’
Chloe Cannon, Commercial Director
‘With a career spanning 20 years in marketing, brand development and business development – all in skills development and higher education, it never occurred to me to look to apply those skills to a different sector. Having now made the move, I will never look back.
Engineering offers a range of opportunities and with a focus on problem solving and progressive solutions, I have found it to be refreshingly open to all ideas and contributions. I would urge the next generation to consider this sector, to contribute your ideas and continue to drive the change.’
Helenor Fisher, Marketing & Business Development Director
‘I am proud to be a champion for women progressing in all careers particularly STEM. I spent 8 years at sea and progressed to a navigating officer on ships, which included lots of adventures, even sailing to the Arctic. The experience allowed me to project manage shipyard refurbishments periods and practice speaking Italian and Spanish. I am currently completing a MSc in Sustainability and Environmental Studies at the University of Strathclyde on a part time basis alongside my work as Managing Director for the fabrication arm of our business. I am very excited about the future of this industry, the change that it will have and opportunities it will offer.’
Lindsey Jessop, Managing Director
We are passionate about supporting the next generation of young people in getting involved in engineering. You can find out more and download our range of free resource below.
