MBDA, under various names, has been an engineering employer in Stevenage almost since the new town began. Days like International Women in Engineering Day and its focus on celebrating the amazing work of female engineers are invaluable in inspiring new generations to follow in their footsteps.

The company is committed to growing and supporting diversity in its workforce and the defence industry. It is a signatory to the Women in Defence Charter and committed to its ambition of achieving a minimum of 30 per cent female representation at all levels of its business by 2030. It also offers a Women in Defence Mentoring Scheme and a STEM Returners partnership to make returning from career breaks as smooth as possible.

Two of MBDA's female engineers share their journey into their engineering careers.

Who or what inspired you to become an engineer?

Becca says her first inspiration was during her childhood, saying, "Growing up, my dad ran the family haulage business. I was fascinated by the lorries, the noise of the engines. How do they work?  What does that button do?  How can it turn that way?" but adds, "At a school careers event, I learned what engineering offered. To me, it sounded both logical and creative. The conclusion I came to was that engineers influence many things at some point.  Like hauliers who keep everything moving, engineers make a difference. That was something I knew I wanted to do too."

Tatiana talks of similar inspiration that engineering generates, saying, "I have always had a passion for creativity, problem-solving and innovation. So engineering always made sense as the perfect career path for me," she says, adding, "The skills that engineers develop apply to a wide range of challenges in different industries, which makes it a versatile and rewarding career choice."

How could you, or your work, inspire others to consider engineering as a career?

Tatiana, who is also a STEM Ambassador for MBDA, says, "During my career, I've had the opportunity to visit schools and attend career events to champion and promote engineering to young people, teachers and parents", adding "I have also won awards, which have helped give me a platform where I hope I have been able to inspire the next generation of engineers."

Becca highlights her career starting with an apprenticeship, leading to roles in four different industries, and says, "The variety of projects across a breadth of environments experienced in my career demonstrates the variety of opportunities engineering offers." However, Becca adds it is a career where women are underrepresented, adding, "I've overcome this difficulty with some fantastic mentors, line managers and colleagues. These people saw something in me that I didn’t know was there. They supported me to grow and develop both professionally and personally.  This is something I passionately pay forward with infectious enthusiasm!"

What makes you feel like you belong at MBDA?

"I joined MBDA as a new mum." Becca says, "It was a role I was still trying to figure out. Like with anything new, it takes time to adapt and adjust. However, MBDA enabled me to apply the engineering knowledge, skills and experience I’d gained in my career, whilst gaining an understanding of an industry that was new to me. All whilst maintaining a helpful work/home life balance", but adds, "I work with some incredible people, and ultimately what we do is truly making a difference."

Tatiana continues that last theme, talking about the elements that create a positive environment and happy workplace for her, saying, "Being part of a supportive team, being given plenty of opportunities to grow and develop, whilst feeling valued, are the main reasons."

MBDA needs passionate people to expand and diversify its dedicated teams across its business. Whether a seasoned engineer or just leaving education, they have a range of roles ready and primed for the right individual. Visit mbdacareers.co.uk to find out more.