Making a difference to women in STEM
Hanson technical trailblazer Emily Burridge selected as finalist in Women in Science and Engineering Awards
HANSON technical production manager Emily Burridge has been selected as a finalist in this year’s Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Awards, which recognize individuals who are achieving in their sector and show commitment to equality in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) in the UK.
Ms Burridge (pictured) was the first female to join Hanson’s Leadership, Education and Development (LEAD) apprenticeship programme and has been promoting both equality and apprenticeships as an opportunity for career progression in the construction industry since starting in 2015.
She now joins the ranks of other inspiring women nominated in the WISE awards and is one of just three finalists selected in the Technician category, which paves the way in raising the profile of a technician as a career path for women who want a hands-on practical role.
In just over three years, Ms Burridge has gone from A-level student to technical production manager for 25 concrete plants at Hanson. She completed her LEAD apprenticeship, obtaining a Foundation Degree in Minerals Extractive Technology at the University of Derby while gaining practical experience of the business, and is currently working towards an Honours Degree in Minerals Management at the same university.
Ms Burridge continues to further her expertise in concrete production while promoting opportunities for women in construction. She has developed two training courses, inspired by the LEAD programme, to help other technicians within the company and has acted as an ambassador for female apprentices who have joined the business.
‘I have been active in encouraging young women to consider work in the STEM field through school visits, working with the Engineering Development Trust as well as contributing to articles and interviews,’ said Ms Burridge, who is based at Hanson’s Weeford site, in the West Midlands, and has featured on platforms such as BBC Radio One.
‘With the recognition of the awards, I hope that my words will reach even more people and that misconceptions of the industry will be challenged further.’
Helen Wollaston, chief executive of WISE, said: ‘The awards are an incredible opportunity to find role models who are blazing a trail and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. From the classroom to the boardroom – there are some fantastic examples to show what can be done to get more girls and women into STEM, as well as truly inspirational stories from those already making a difference.’
The WISE Awards 2019 will be presented at a gala dinner in London on 7 November.
