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Here we get chatting to people working in the STEM industry and what their journey has been to get to their careers today, as well as their thoughts on whether young people are well enough prepared for their transition from education to full time careers.
Juliana de Macedo Coelho
Juliana de Macedo Coelho
Clinical Scientist
How Have You Got to Where You are Today?
I undertook a Pharmacy-biochemistry degree at the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil and after moving to the UK, I worked as a research assistant for 2 years in the crop fungicide resistance field. Thereafter, I started my PhD on investigation of carbapenem resistance mechanisms in Acinetobacter spp. During my thesis writing, I worked at the National Bacteriology Laboratory of the NHS Blood and Transplant, eventually becoming permanent on the reference laboratory of the Health Protection Agency (now UKHSA), Here I worked with Streptococcus pyogenes typing and supporting public health interventions. I am now the Head of the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus Reference Section of UKHSA, leading a great team, implementing methodologies to differentiate further bacterial strains, and more effectively informing and supporting public health interventions.
What has been your experience of transitioning from education to your career?
My degree gave me the basis and understanding of human physiology, as well as chemistry, microbiology, statistics, amongst other subjects, which are very relevant to my current position. Research came to me as an opportunity of growth and a career possibility very early during my degree, when I obtained a fellowship to undertake research with Ruthenium compounds at the Chemistry laboratory, after undertaking training at the Quality Control of Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics department at the university. I have very fond memories of continuous learning during my placements and then starting to work as a junior research assistant, and developing my career by undertaking a PhD.
Do you feel that young people coming into industry are well prepared for the workforce and why?
My experience with young people joining the workforce comes from recruitment of junior staff in my laboratory. I have been very fortunate to work with youngsters that are very keen to learn, and that want to move forward in their careers. Based on this I would say that yes, they are prepared for the workforce. However, this does not take into consideration of the overall young population joining the workforce on a National level. Other factors, such as where someone undertook their degree and postcode lottery can impact on an individual's education and opportunities for growth.
Which particular aspect of science, outside of the typical theory and practical assessments do you think is key for schools to be teaching?
Having joined science week in school a couple of times, it was very interesting that the students are clearly curious in science, especially how it applies to everyday life. With my particular interest in application of research, I think applying science knowledge to everyday life and demonstrating its significance is key to maintaining interest for progressing into science based fields.
Charlotte Cottle
Charlotte Cottle
Veterinary Surgeon
How have you got to where you are today?
Following being awarded three A's at A Level, I studied Veterinary Medicine at teh Royal Veterinary College in London for 5 years. I am currently in the middle of a post graduate course (Masters Level) which will give me a recognisable certificate in Veterinary Dentistry under the work based and integrative studies scheme.
What has been your experience of transitioning from education to your career?
20 years ago, there was no transition at all! Following graduation it was luck of the drawer as to whether you had a good clinic / supportive boss and colleaues. Now, veterinary graduates follow a development programme (VetGDP) with trained Vet GDP advisers which helps the transition to help professional development , reduce anxiety and build confidence.
Do you feel that young people coming into industry are well prepared for the workforce and why?
I believe they have a broader understanding of the profession and are exposed to alternative career paths to being a clinical vet following graduation. However, stress levels to appear to be higher in the younger graduates now, so perhaps this needs to be advised at university.
Which particular aspect of science, outside of the typical theory and practical assessments do you think is key for schools to be teaching?
How to balance work / school / life stress (including the impact of phones and social media) with management strategies so it becomes more the norm. e.g. 15 minutes of yoga built into the school day.
Amy Gaughan
Amy Gaughan
Senior Project Manager
How have you got to where you are today?
I studied maths and physics A-levels and went onto study Civil Engineering at City University. I began a graduate scheme as a graduate engineer for McNicholas Construction, which was rotational and gave me an insight into different departments within construction companies that generally lack exposure to those outside of the industry, i.e. estimating, procurement, business development. Upon completion of my graduate scheme, I opted to remain within the rail department where I began my role as an Assistant Project Manager. I supported the Operations Manager in the delivery of complex design projects, before managing my own smaller projects. After 18 months I was promoted to project manager, where I delivered numerous multi-discipline projects, from feasibility through to handback stage. After a few years in this role, I applied to Turner & Townsend where I was offered the role I am in now.
What has been your experience of transitioning from education to your career?
There is a gulf between engineering/construction education sector and the operational environment. While education provides a strong technical background, a lot of soft skills and practical exposure can only be gained in practice. Despite degrees opening doors to construction, it can make one feel lost upon entry without having prior experience of how the construction world actually works.
Do you feel that young people coming into industry are well prepared for the workforce and why?
It depends on their background. If young people have had practical exposure and are aware of the nuances of the construction industry, this is an easier transition compared to those coming from a solely educational route. Theoretical knowledge is useful in design and can feed into construction, but more often that not, experience allows more informed decisions to be made.
Which particular aspect of science, outside of the typical theory and practical assessments do you think is key for schools to be teaching?
The variety of roles available within construction. The outdated view of physical site work still remains in the forefront of people's minds when construction is mentioned. Until joining the industry, the concepts of quantity surveying, design management, project management etc were completely foreign to me.
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