For International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) we're profiling some talented women engineers whose careers are truly thriving at Schneider Electric.
Meet Antonia Lamballe. She's an Application Design Engineer at Schneider Electric. Working with Schneider Electric was her first technical job since finishing her degree. In fact, she started with the company before her graduation ceremony had even taken place.
Antonia shares why Schneider Electric initially appealed to her as an undergraduate engineer, and where her career has taken her since she first joined the company.
What is it like to work in Schneider Electric? Please describe your role
Being an applications design engineer for the GenieEvo switchgear range means that i follow each project from tendering stage through to manufacturing. I design and problem solve to meet customer specifications. Within this role, daily challenges allow for personal growth and development to make me a more rounded engineer.
When and why did you decide to become an engineer?
During my GCSEs and A-Levels, both maths and physics were particular subjects in which i excelled. Teachers within my school encouraged me to look into STEM careers where i then pursued a summer school program at the University of Bristol to aid my decision regarding my chosen discipline. Electrical and electronics engineering allowed me to combine my favourite subjects whilst keeping a more 'hands-on' approach to learning in a fast paced, ever-changing environment.
Why Schneider Electric?
Schneider Electric appealed to me as an undergraduate engineer with the vast range of products and services offered which allows for a varied career path in all aspects of the business and around the world.
How has Schneider Electric supported your career?
Schneider Electric has provided me with the specialist training for switch gear equipment and the software required from very basic skills. My manager has also encouraged me to explore other areas of the business which interest me as part of my personal development.
How has flexibility supported your career choices and options?
During my induction i was allowed time to be spent in each department to get a full overview of the manufacturing process from start to finish which gave valuable insight into the roles of colleagues.
What has been your most rewarding experience as an engineer?
Personally, I find it rewarding when I can physically see my own improvements. With each project, I am constantly furthering my own knowledge and abilities which can be seen by consistently less project comments or manufacturing issues. With having limited experience prior to starting with the company, I take more joy in my own progression rather than specific experiences.
What has been challenging as an engineer?
Beginning this role, I had very limited experience in MV equipment so I had to quickly find my feet alongside learning technical knowledge, software skills and settling into the company. I found this very challenging at first adapting from university life, however, having a strong and supportive network of colleagues around me helped with my transition and to further myself as an engineer.
What's your advice for women interested in engineering?
Don't give up, it gets better! I know sometimes, especially during university, it can be so frustrating but it is important to stick with it and surround yourself with a good support system.
Who has been your greatest support at Schneider Electric?
A member of my engineering team. He has helped me mentally and technically with every aspect of this role, from checking my drawings to listening to my problems and helping me to problem solve them. He is a valuable member of the engineering team and I would not have progressed at the rate I have done without his help and guidance.
Kick-start your engineering career at Schneider Electric
Women at Schneider Electric receive the personal and professional support they need to excel in their engineering careers.
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Disclosure: Where Women Work researches and publishes insightful evidence about how its paid member organizations support women's equality.