Several of St Louis accomplished female alumni, now working as engineers, recently returned to the school to host a STEM Engineering event and share their experiences and insights both of university courses and working life. In an engaging presentation, they discussed the unique opportunities and challenges they’ve encountered as women pursuing careers in male-dominated fields. Their personal stories and accomplishments served to illuminate the vast array of roles within the field of engineering locally, nationally, and internationally.

Past pupil and former Arkwright scholar, Caitlin Sands, (MEng Hons 1st class Mechanical Engineering, former engineer at the Northern Ireland Technology Centre and currently a PhD researcher in uncertainty surround humans in manufacturing using AI), led the event. Caitlin was accompanied by another former student, Megan Mc Manus, (BEng Hons 1st class Mechanical Engineering, CMI Level 7 Strategic Management, currently undertaking post-graduate studies (PT) MEng Hons in Mechanical Engineering and Management) a senior Materials and Processes Engineer at SPIRIT AeroSystems (formally Bombardier). St Louis were also delighted to welcome, Lauren Margerison, (MEng Hons 1ST class Mechanical Engineering, former QUB Formula 1 student) a Structural Engineer at Artemis Technologies Belfast helping to develop the next generation of maritime transport with the electric foiling commercial boats. The Young Women in Engineering event proved both educational and inspiring for an audience of female students ranging from Year 10 to Year 13. Within the audience were the successful St Louis team who were awarded 2nd place in the 2023 UK Quadcopter challenge; Sophie McGrath, Cara O’ Neill, Grace Hughes, and Eimear Gorman.

The engineers then led an engaging team activity focused on solving a real-world engineering problem. Our students were thrilled to learn from these role models and gain hands-on experience collaborating with peers. We are grateful to our visiting STEM ambassadors for taking the time to visit and make a meaningful impact.

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