Girl power! Bus operator proves engineering is not just a career for the boys

A Skegness bus operator is celebrating the women helping keep its fleet moving – and proving engineering is a career open to everyone.

To mark International Women in Engineering Day, Stagecoach East Midlands’ Skegness depot has shone a spotlight on three members of its team who are building careers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Karen Hubbard, Engineering Administration Clerk at the depot, says women considering a career in engineering should not hesitate to take the opportunity.

Her message is simple: “Go for it!”

Karen, who previously worked in retail and marketing, said she has found engineering to be a welcoming and supportive environment.

“Everyone I have met are unbelievably supportive of each other and there are great working relationships,” she said.

“As someone who has worked in retail and marketing, where women are in the majority, there is definitely more of an opportunity to stand out in Engineering, not to mention learning skills that will be much more practical to have for your life outside of work too.”

Karen’s role involves supporting the engineering team, meeting new people and understanding the important relationship between engineering and operations.

Fellow Engineering Administration Clerk Adele Wilkinson is also encouraging more women and girls to consider the industry.

Her role includes managing vehicle defect cards, AdBlue usage and supporting stores duties.

“My advice for other women or girls considering a role in Engineering would be to just go for it and do not let anyone tell you that you can't,” she said.

“Be proud to be a woman in Engineering!”

Apprentice Ellie Hunt is also gaining valuable experience through Stagecoach’s Trade Up scheme, moving from an operations role into engineering.

She said the combination of practical experience and learning has helped her develop new skills.

“The hands-on experience is fantastic,” Ellie said.

“The level of experience from the other engineers is amazing – they are all willing to share their knowledge to help me through my apprenticeship.”

International Women in Engineering Day takes place every year on June 23 and aims to celebrate female engineers, encourage diversity and highlight opportunities in the sector.

Stagecoach says apprenticeships and development opportunities continue to provide routes into engineering careers for people from a range of backgrounds.