Please give us a brief introduction to your role at Thales
I am a Consultant Systems Engineer working for Thales Cyber and Consulting (TC&C), which is part of our UK security business. I work face to face with clients, using engineering tools and skills to help them understand, explore and address their business opportunities and challenges. Day to day my job is extremely varied ranging from high level Customer workshops, to supporting technical bids, through to developing detailed system models. I’m a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), so I have a suite of skills I can turn to.
Tell us a little bit about what inspired you to join Thales in the first place
My primary motivation for joining Thales was the opportunity to work in the technical field of Communications and Information Security. My career has developed significantly over the last decade, initially growing as a digital electronics expert; I quickly learnt that I preferred considering all aspects of a system rather than detailed technical design. As I have progressed through various roles in several companies, I have continually strived to understand the systems that I work in and their interactions with outside influences over time; this has focused me on developing my role as a Systems Engineer. I saw that a role with Thales offered me the opportunity of applying all that I’d learned to date and the chance to expand my expertise in Systems Engineering, in particular MBSE and Systems Architecting focussed on solving complex security challenges.
What have been the highlights of your time here so far?
I have had two main highlights since joining Thales. Firstly, attending the MCA award-winning TC&C Consultancy Development Programme (CDP); the programme involved intense training on consultancy behaviours, and the opportunity to build networks within the TC&C group. The course exceeded my expectations for many reasons; in particular the interactive nature of the course meant that I learnt a huge amount about my working practices and behaviours which has been invaluable going forward. I relish the opportunity to learn and understand new industries and technologies, so my second highlight has been working on a high level concept programme to support the UK’s National Infrastructure; this complex programme has given me significant opportunities to develop in many areas, including MBSE, stakeholder management, security skills, agile methodologies, and complex supplier dynamics.
What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue a career path such as yours?
Don’t be afraid to just go for it! I recently attended the 2018 Women in Science & Engineering (WISE) Conference and an overwhelming trend was how woman often only apply for roles when they believe they have all the credentials, whereas in reality companies may be happy if a candidate only meets a selection of the requirements.
It’s important to be yourself. It can often feel easier to just fit in with those around you, but I think it’s important to understand your own style of working and to feel comfortable at work.
Finally, be prepared to fail. Through failure we learn and it is never a sign of weakness. “Failure is necessary for any learning curve. Failure makes you stronger, bolder, and less scared of taking risks.” - Nkemdilim Begho, Founder and Managing Director of Future Software Resources Limited
In your opinion, how would you sum up the importance of diversity in the workplace?
Diversity is hugely important. I believe that diversity enables greater innovation due to the variety of thoughts, ideas and inspiration it creates. Diversity also leads to growing acceptance, which can benefit teams and divisions as a whole. It can expose us to different perspectives and make us less focussed on our own personal goals and achievements.