Alison works at the only operating smelter in the UK, in the highlands of Scotland at Fort William. It was the sustainability aspect that drew Alison to the role, as well having the opportunity to work somewhere unique and steeped in history. She is a proactive problem solver, so this career path was ideal for her.

Alison didn’t start her working life in engineering, but she was able to bring along her many transferable skills such as leadership, critical thinking and problem solving, communication and innovation with her to the role. What she likes the most about engineering is the variety of environments she has been able to work in: marine, spirits, and now the metals industry.

Alison is happy to be breaking the stereotype when it comes to working in engineering, and believes that the lack of women in industry is down to lack of awareness and misconceptions about the various careers available. Engineering is a hugely diverse field and key part of our daily lives with many opportunities, so Alison would encourage the next generation to seriously consider it as a career path.