Career Change Opportunities at Hull’s Women in Manufacturing and Engineering Event

Women and girls interested in exploring careers in manufacturing, engineering, construction, digital, or renewable energy will soon have a unique opportunity to connect with industry experts. Hull’s Guildhall will host the Women in Manufacturing and Engineering (WiME) careers event, featuring over 30 of the Humber region’s top employers.

This event provides a platform for attendees to network with professionals, discover current job openings, and gain insight into the qualifications and training required to thrive in these high-demand sectors.

Connecting women and girls with career opportunities

The WiME event is designed to create pathways for women and girls considering a career shift or entering new industries. Attendees, along with their parents or carers, can meet professionals already thriving in these sectors, ask questions about day-to-day work life, and explore apprenticeship and training programs that cater to their ambitions.

One notable participant who has successfully made a career transition is Carrie Grimbleby, a former science teacher who has shifted her focus towards renewable energy. After completing a Master’s degree in renewable energy, Carrie discovered WiME through Green Port Hull, and attended a careers event that helped her secure her first industry role with Associated British Ports (ABP).

Carrie shared her experience, saying:

"I was introduced to women from companies like ABP and Siemens Gamesa, where I discussed graduate opportunities with them. It was inspiring to hear about their career journeys, especially those who had made recent career changes."

Carrie encourages women and girls to pursue careers in these fields, assuring them that a career in manufacturing, engineering, or renewable energy is achievable at any age. She added:

"WiME is an incredible starting point for anyone considering a change, and I strongly recommend attending the event to learn more."

The role of manufacturing in the Humber region

Manufacturing plays a significant role in the Humber region’s economy, contributing to 17% of local employment, compared to 8.7% nationally. This highlights the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) qualifications, which are in high demand. Despite this, women remain under-represented in these fields, which offer competitive salaries and exciting career prospects.

This disparity represents an opportunity for women to fill these roles, bringing diverse perspectives to industries that are critical to both the local economy and the global shift towards sustainability.

Cllr Linda Tock, portfolio holder for Hull Training at Hull City Council, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event:

"This event is a brilliant opportunity for women and girls in our city to discover new career pathways. The council is keen to support them in their journey, and we’re proud to host the WiME event at the Guildhall."

Dispelling misconceptions about STEM careers

Dr Kirsty Clode, chair of WiME, explained that the organisation is working hard to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about careers in traditionally male-dominated fields such as engineering, manufacturing, construction, and digital sectors. These industries require skills such as innovation, adaptability, and problem-solving, qualities that women excel in.

Dr Clode remarked:

"Our events showcase the exciting opportunities available in these industries, and we want to encourage women and girls to take advantage of these rewarding roles."

WiME aims to make these careers more accessible by showing the diversity of roles available, from technical positions to management roles, with an emphasis on collaboration and creativity.

Event details

The WiME careers event is free to attend and will take place on Wednesday, 9 October, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM at Hull’s Guildhall. It promises to be an inspiring and informative session for anyone interested in learning more about careers in manufacturing, engineering, and related industries.

To find out more and to reserve a place, visit the event’s official page. Don’t miss this chance to explore a new career in some of the region’s most dynamic and innovative sectors.