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An Interview with Chloe Kingsland: Graduate of the Ford Engineering Academy
CNC Milling Apprentice Chloe tells us all about her journey with the Ford Engineering Academy
When did you realise you had an interest in engineering?
‘I first realised my interest in engineering when I was 13 years old. We had to pick our options at school and I decided to study Product Design – I’ve always been good with my hands and thought I would enjoy the practical side of the course and I certainly did! From that point on, I was hooked.’
What was it that made you want to join?
‘I first heard of the Ford Engineering Academy when I read an article in the local newspaper, which featured our Chairman, Geoff Ford; he described the Academy, what it offered and what it was all about. I especially liked that as part of the course, six weeks of that would be in the workplace with a local employer where I would gain hands on experience in engineering.’
What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?
'Like I mentioned before, the fact that my role within the company is extremely hands-on
interests me; I love the idea that you have nothing but raw material at the start of a job and by the end of the process you have a quality, finished product. When I look at a finished job, the fact I played a role in making that product makes me exteremely proud.'
What is it about Ford that you think would appeal to potential apprentices?
‘At Ford, there is a strong emphasis on apprenticeships, we are made to feel like an extremely valued part of the work force and the apprenticeship programme is excellent. I also like the fact that working at Ford is just like being part of one big family, you aren’t just a number.’
Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
'I would like to be a fully qualified engineer working in the CNC Milling department; possibly even a team leader here at Ford.’
Gender inequality in the engineering sector is one of the major challenges facing British engineering in the future; in 2015, women make up only 9% of UK engineering professionals.
We've produced a free iOS App and written resources to help careers professionals and their customers overcome barriers of gender stereotyping in a range of different careers. To download the app or the resources, simply click here.