An interview with Bethany Johnson, Apprentice Service Engineer

What's your background and what attracted you to engineering?

As a child, I would spend a lot of time taking my bike apart and reassembling it. I really enjoyed any opportunity I got to assemble new furniture or help family members with DIY. As I got a little older, I started working with a family member who has their own painting and decorating business. This led to opportunities for conversations and teaching from qualified plumbers and electricians. In September 2021, I began studying Clinical Psychology at the University of Worcester, however by the end of the first year, I was confident this was not the correct career path for me. I took a chance and dropped out of university after applying for a Trainee Service Engineer role at Excool in Bromsgrove. This is where I discovered my passion for engineering.

What attracted you to this role?

I recently moved back to the North East, which is when I discovered the position here at Atlas Copco. I applied straight away as it was too good of an opportunity to miss out on. The company proposed incredible opportunities for the progression of education as well as possessing many of my personal values regarding reducing negative impacts on the environment.

What's your opinion on why there aren’t many females in this role or industry?

I believe the lack of female presence in this industry stems from stereotypes and lack of encouragement. Young girls aren’t given trucks or tools to play with as a child like their male counterparts. Thankfully I had a very encouraging family who allowed me to explore the curiosity I had regarding engineering, however not all young people have such a great support system.

What do you think should be done to attract more females to this role?

I believe an active approach in educational settings needs to be made in order to combat the stigma regarding women in STEM. Furthermore, the lack of role models for young women curious about STEM poses serious limitations. I hope to be able to use my experience throughout my employment with Atlas Copco to encourage more young women into engineering.

Are there any female role models that empowered you to pursue a career in engineering?

For myself, my biggest role model is my mum. She is so supportive and has always encouraged me to pursue my passions. She has consistently demonstrated that her gender will never be a barrier to her success. Unfortunately, I do not have any female role models within my field owing to either a lack of knowledge of them or a scarcity of them. By sharing my personal experiences, I aspire to be this person for young women.