Today I visited the Thales site in Cheadle to show my support for Women in Industry Day, which encourages girls to study subjects which could lead to a career in industries such as engineering, and highlights the role women play in the industry.

Before receiving a short tour of Thales’ facilities, I had the chance to speak to staff, graduates, apprentices and students about the importance of engineering as a career, and how much more needs to be done to increase the shockingly low figure of only 9% of engineering jobs being taken by women.

Current staff members who entered the world of engineering through Thales’ graduate and apprenticeship programmes spoke to pupils about their experiences, what kind of engineering they specialised in, and why their chosen route of study was best for them. The aim of the day was to show pupils currently still in school that there are many routes into a wide-ranging and interesting career in engineering. Something which Thales are putting emphasis on through their links with local schools around the country.

I was delighted to visit Thales to show my support for Women in Industry Day, and to see the action they are taking to promote the role of women in Engineering. It was great to hear from staff, graduates and apprentices about their fascinating careers as well as talking to pupils about the importance of women in industry, and why they should consider studying STEM subjects and using their talents in engineering.