An engineering graduate with a passion for promoting women into STEM

Jade Edwards is an engineering graduate at Boeing with a passion for promoting women into STEM. Jade talks to us about her STEM journey and her role in supporting LGBTQIA+ charities.

When I began researching further education options on leaving school, presentations from universities where courses applied the STEM theories sparked a desire in me to learn more about the practical application of mathematics, physics and the discipline of engineering, which appeared most suited to my skills and interests.

A choice of engineering disciplines eventually narrowed down to an aerospace engineering degree.

On completion of my degree I found myself unclear as to my preferred specialism and found a graduate engineering role that allowed me the opportunity to experience different disciplines in a supportive and developmental environment.

Was there anything during childhood or education that influenced your career choice?

During my secondary education I was inspired by my physics teacher. Being dyslexic with functional processing challenges I required additional support to initially understand concepts. My teacher’s explanation of both the theory and practical application embedded my inquisitive interest in the engineering field.

I benefited from girls being encouraged to consider STEM-related subjects and also the positive portrayal of women in engineering roles. It made me more determined especially when more traditional thoughts of others discouraged me to pursue this industry.

How have you found your journey in STEM so far?

This first year of my career has had plenty of highs and some challenges.

The scheme I am on has allowed me to experience different engineering roles to work with individuals from many disciplines and management levels. These roles have allowed me to develop both my practical application of my degree, learn new software applications, analyse existing processes and make recommendations for improvements. I have also been involved in outreach to schools through work, to encourage others to consider STEM. This has been an amazing part of the journey, to come full circle to encourage the development of women in STEM.

What has been your biggest success in your career?

My greatest achievement to date was successfully securing a place on the Boeing Graduate programme. The variation of doing three different engineering roles and one out of function has allowed me to see the different aspects of the business and has granted me job satisfaction.

What has been your biggest challenge in your career?

I find some days I have “imposter syndrome”, I am still learning to believe that I am capable of being an engineer.

Are there any exciting projects you are currently working on?

In this scheme I’ve found plenty of exciting challenges. I started in System Safety and Environmental Engineering then moved to Programme Management and I’ve recently joined the Project Engineering team. This has been a thrilling experience as it means I can constantly get involved in new projects and see a different side to the industry.

My current team works on the UK's E-7 Wedgetail programme, which is a really amazing team to be part of as it is still in development and I am able to experience a new side of the engineering life cycle.

What advice would you give to young people looking at careers in engineering and technology?

Do not doubt your abilities, remember everyone’s voice is important, be positive, network and constantly learn from others!

What does the future look like and what are your goals?

My short term plan is to complete my graduate programme with positive recommendations. To find a discipline in which I plan to specialise and become an ambassador for women in engineering.

On obtaining a longer-term appointment I intend to expand my theoretical knowledge through completion of a masters and obtaining chartered membership. The future challenges with energy and the environment are issues I hope to impact with my career!

Do you take part in any volunteering or extracurricular projects?

I am involved in some Business Recourse Groups (BRGs) within Boeing, BRGs are employee led groups that support different communities and promote allyship.

One of the BRGs I have been involved in is Boeing Europe Pride Alliance (BEPA), BEPA is an employee association dedicated to supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community and community allies, providing avenues for personal and professional development. This chapter would provide the opportunity for members to learn more about and gain awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community.

I share the community outreach role with another employee and this year we have been focusing on spotlighting LGBTQIA+ charities giving them a platform within Boeing to share their amazing work. This year I have also been involved in STEM and various Early Careers events. This year I will be joining REACH as UK community lead. REACH is centred around three pillars; networking, development and community. My role as Community lead is to provide support and guidance to the site focals on all things within their local neighbourhood. This will include signposting the focals and members to community specific resources, and also helping to organise site specific community initiatives.