Women of Steel

For the first time in the podcast’s history, we speak to an external Woman of Steel. SUSTAIN’s Dr Becky Waldram didn’t plan for a career in the steel industry but finds herself deeply embedded in projects aiming to create carbon neutral, resource-efficient UK steel supply chains. Growing up with a passion for discovering how things work, Becky always wanted to wander down the STEM career path. Influenced by a D&T teacher at school, Becky pursued engineering rather than computer science, and now works in a predominantly female team! Find out how this industry anomaly has changed the dynamic of Becky’s working day, and how she’s dedicates time to inspire the next generation of STEM minds. Find out more about SUSTAIN: https://www.sustainsteel.ac.uk/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLETTLU0iK3hM_w-P5avxs0578pQex85T8 Follow us: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tatasteeluk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tatasteeluk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tatasteeluk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tata-steel-uk-ireland   We also have another podcast, SteelCast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TsfLY5UzDTHs2kHykOJYl?si=aa4f9ed4d5f44687

In this episode, Abi chats to Area HR Manager, Tuesday Ibbotson. After just two years spent in the steel industry, Tuesday is already making a name for herself – from her involvement in the Steel Women’s Network to becoming a major player in the development of Tata Steel’s Diversity and Inclusion Programme. But for Tuesday, her life and career trajectory hasn’t always been on the up. From teenager years spent in hospital beds to the struggles of finding a full-time job and postponed plans to travel the world – how did she become the well-rounded and inspiring person she is today? Listen in to hear Tuesday talk about the freedom of not knowing what you what to do ‘when you grow up’, her big ambitions to make Tata Steel one of the most progressive and inclusive businesses in the world – and not forgetting – some interesting takes on the recent #Barbie movie! Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EeIv1XTAif4 Connect with Tuesday on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuesday-ibbotson-mcipd-790832147/ Follow us: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tatasteeluk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tatasteeluk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tatasteeluk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tata-steel-uk-ireland We also have another podcast, SteelCast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TsfLY5UzDTHs2kHykOJYl?si=aa4f9ed4d5f44687

In this episode, Abi chats to Lead Technician for Raw Materials, Georgia Cox. Woman in STEM, powerlifter, feminist campaigner and the official Miss Port Talbot – is there anything Georgia can’t do? At age of 20, Georgia has already secured herself a permanent job in Port Talbot steelworks, just six months after joining the company as a Higher Laboratories Apprentice. But it wasn’t an easy path for Georgia. Academically gifted, Georgia secured a place in one of the world’s top universities, but she felt something just wasn’t right... Tune in to hear Georgia talk about making big decisions in your formative years, growing your confidence and giving yourself room to grow, change your mind and ultimately, to do what you love. Don’t miss this honest and uplifting chat with one of our rising Women of Steel. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLETTLU0iK3hM_w-P5avxs0578pQex85T8  Follow us: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tatasteeluk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tatasteeluk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tatasteeluk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tata-steel-uk-ireland We also have another podcast, SteelCast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TsfLY5UzDTHs2kHykOJYl?si=aa4f9ed4d5f44687

In Episode 2, Abi speaks to Packaging and Recycling Education Officer, Eleanor Shorland. Married at the tender age of 21, Eleanor spent much of her early twenties settled into a comfortable, domestic lifestyle. But it while getting her kids through school and working a retail job for extra cash that she decided to make a return to the world of academia and hunt for a career that finally fulfilled her. Then came a unique and unmissable opportunity – a paid internship at a local steel company. Listen in as Eleanor talks about growing her confidence and climbing the corporate ladder as a busy mum and Business Undergraduate in her thirties. Don’t forget to subscribe! Follow us: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tatasteeluk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tatasteeluk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tatasteeluk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tata-steel-uk-ireland Follow Eleanor: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/RecycleWithEl Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecycleWithEleanor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recycle_with_eleanor/ We also have another podcast, SteelCast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TsfLY5UzDTHs2kHykOJYl?si=aa4f9ed4d5f44687 Tune in to hear the latest about our journey towards net zero.

In this brand-new series of Women of Steel, Tata Steel’s host, Abi Thomas kicks things off by chatting to April Wilkinson, Head of Technical at Shotton Works. This year, April will be celebrating two decades spent in steel. But it was while studying for her A-Levels one day, that a lecturer planted the seed in her brain . . . ‘Study Materials Science, and you’ll be guaranteed to get a job by the end of it, particularly as a woman’, he said. Since joining what was then Corus as a Summer Placement in the early 2000’s, April has risen through the ranks to become one of three female senior managers at Shotton Works – and has broken many more records since. Join Abi and April for a conversation about April’s climb to the top – were there any bumps along the way?  How did she manage the inevitable feelings of self-doubt? What advice can she give to twenty-somethings, like Abi, at the start of their careers? Tune in to find out. Follow us: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tatasteeluk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tatasteeluk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tatasteeluk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tata-steel-uk-ireland

After completing her degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering at the University of Warwick, Karen joined what was then British Steel, as a Logistics Graduate in 1992. Working across a number of different departments over the last 29 years, Karen is currently working as an Integration Manager for Supply Chain. It has been quite a career for Karen, who has been able to successfully navigate being in a senior management position while raising her family – but it hasn’t always been easy. Karen opens up about how it's vital to take time for yourself, the importance of prioritising your mental health, and how her own journey has made her a better leader. 

After joining the industry as an apprentice, Barbara has enjoyed a varied career specialising in the Energy department. With a thirst for learning that has carried her across the last twenty years, join us for a conversation on how Barbara is now navigating the next phase of her career, as it collides with an important issue for many women in the workplace – menopause. With insights on how the support of female colleagues, alongside a robust workplace policy can make this transition period smoother for lots of women plus some brilliant book recommendations from Barbara that she has found to be essential over the last few years this podcast isn’t just for women experiencing menopause, but partners, colleagues and workplace policy makers. Links to resources as mentioned in the episode: https://www.gen-m.com/ https://www.themenopausecharity.org/ https://henpicked.net/ https://www.ted.com/talks/lisa_mosconi_how_menopause_affects_the_brain?language=en https://www.themenopausecharity.org/2021/06/09/the-menopause-explained-webinar/ https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23/chapter/Recommendations#diagnosis-of-perimenopause-and-menopause

Aimee is a Process Technology specialist at Tata Steel’s Llanwern site, having studied forensic science at De Montfort University it was by chance that Aimee discovered that there could be a field of study and work around metallurgy. Completing her PHD in 2019 Aimee is also vice-chair of the IOM3 Student and Early careers committee.  Growing up in the steel town of Corby, Aimee was always aware of the steel industry, but never once imaged herself working in it herself.  Join us for a conversation on finding your passions, working hard to achieve your goals and the benefits of allowing yourself time to relax. 

After joining the Royal Navy following a bet with her dad, Natalie successfully enjoyed a career as a Weapons Engineering Officer for over a decade, having 2 of her 3 children whilst in service; gaining operational campaign medals for service in Afghanistan, Sierra Leone and Libya. Following the Navy, she began her career in steel working as an operations planner for Harsco and an advanced refractories technician for Vesuvius. Now, as a specialist in refractory maintenance on Port Talbot’s iconic Blast Furnaces, Natalie is open about the struggle of being the absent parent, the lessons she’s learned along the way and why she would encourage any girl to follow a path like hers. Listen in for an honest, entertaining and informative chat with a formidable Women of Steel.  

Despite hailing from the north east of England – a region rich in heavy industry history – Heather Rowland never dreamt she’d be at the coalface of a south Wales steelworks. Now, more than a decade into her career, Heather has overcome imposter syndrome to cement herself as a key figure in Port Talbot’s steelmaking plant, playing a large part in projects and processes that keep the site operating safely and efficiently. As one of the 4% of women in operational roles across Tata Steel’s hub in Port Talbot and Llanwern, Heather is keen to see more female representation in the workforce, and while she has achieved so much already – she is not done yet. Heather is a true woman of steel.

While carving out a successful career in a private law firm, Natalie Young wanted to pursue a career that would give her an opportunity to have a more active input in legal projects. One way to achieve that was to join an in-house team. Natalie joined Tata Steel back in 2009 as a solicitor in the property team. Since then, she has not only climbed the ladder to become Head of Legal for Property at Tata Steel Europe, but has made a conscious effort to extend her hand and assist others during their own climb. A passionate singer in her spare time, Natalie hits all the right notes when harmonising potential obstacles for women in a man’s world, and how to overcome them.

Growing up in India, Rouha saw two obvious career choices - a doctor or an engineer. Having an aptitude for maths she decided that Mechanical engineering would be the best choice for her.   Being one of only a few women on her university course, and following a tough experience on a placement where she wasn't allowed onto a site due to her gender, Rouha joined Tata Steel's Blast Furnaces team in 2007 and never looked back.   There she found a supportive community of colleagues and mentors who challenged her and encouraged her to develop regardless of gender. Playing an integral role in some key construction projects, Rouha firmly cemented her name in the Tata Steel history books, but now after over a decade in steel she is working on sustainability projects. Full circle perhaps?   A tenacious spirit, can-do attitude and strong work ethic helped Rouha face career challenges head on.   A motivational conversation with one of Tata Steel's senior engineers, demonstrating that gender barriers are there to be smashed!

What started as a summer job to cover a hefty phone bill turned into a lifelong career for Jo Evans. Starting at 17 in the sales office, within 10 years Jo was sales Director managing a large team of mostly men, twice her age. Was this intimidating? What lessons did she learn along the way? She is a woman forged from her experiences in steel. In this conversation, we learn about Jo's passion for helping others to learn on the job, she believes in giving people a chance, taking that risk and always learning from your mistakes.

Starting her career as a Graduate in hospitality and working her way to the top of that industry in HR some people might wonder why Amanda chose to move to a career in Steel. But as we discuss in the podcast Amanda loves a challenge.   Thriving on learning about people and what drives them, she sees her gender as an opportunity, not a challenge. She understands what she brings to the table, and knows her own worth. An inspirational conversation with a powerful female leader. 

To kick off series two of Women of Steel, we speak the founder of Tata Steel’s Steel Women’s Network, and recent Institution of Engineering and Technology award winner, Susan Jones.   Following a first taste of the steel industry while studying for her Masters, Susan had stints in the aerospace and automotive sectors. Since her return to the steelworks, Susan has not only flown the flag for women in STEM, but planted it firmly in the middle of the traditionally male-dominated workplace.   There’s no getting away from it, Susan is a true woman of steel.

Joanne Lane has seen 25 years in steel. Starting as a junior buyer in 1993 she is now Director of Procurement and Stores across Tata Steel's UK sites. But how did Joanne reach the leadership position she's in?   Taking the lessons learned from her family to her workplace; hard work, commitment and dedication.   Joanne's grounded viewpoint and positive outlook has enabled her to develop a strong team who give back to the steel communities they serve.    Joanne has enjoyed a successful career, but it hasn't been without its challenges. Navigating motherhood and career made her re-evaluate everything she thought she wanted.    An inspirational conversation with a woman who see's leadership as her greatest learning opportunity. Leading with integrity, confidence and humility. 

Starting her career with what was then British steel in her late teens in Corby, the daughter of a furnace-man Carol Hughes had steel in her blood.   In her first role as a record clerk, Carol was able to see what else the company had to offer and was keen to join the buzz and energy of the commercial team – working hard to finally to get a role in the team she had longed to join after a few years of trying.   Surrounded by alpha males, sales was exciting, but not without its challenges. Carol traveled the world with the company, returned to education and climbed the career ladder to manage a commercial team of 12.    An inspirational conversation with a woman who demonstrates that working hard and being respectful of others can lead to a fulfilling career, having fun along the way as well. 

As the first female Technical Manager and one of three women on the Tata Steel Colors (Shotton site) management team, Lyndsay Penn is ambitious and driven, but what inspired her to pursue a career in manufacturing?   After enjoying an immersive 'Girls into Engineering' week while at school, Lyndsay later went on to study Process Technology & Management degree in Loughborough, but it was during her sandwich year at uni she really discovered her passion for manufacturing in particular the operations side.   Lyndsay's career to date, is an example of the power in finding out what you enjoy, not being held back by the assumptions placed upon you because of gender and taking the opportunities offered.   Insightful and inspiring, Lyndsay is a true #womanofsteel

In this week's episode we talk with Deirdre Fox, Director Strategic Business Development for Tata Steel. Deirdre joined the business as a HR graduate and little could she have imagined the journey her career would take her on. A senior leader, in a male dominated environment, Deirdre is uplifting and motivational. Talking about the challenges that came with being a woman working and living alone abroad, how she faced up to the 'boys club' mentality across the industry and how she has been able to develop a career on her own terms.   A successful working mother, Deirdre appreciates the power in diversity across the board in business and makes a compelling argument for a flexible workplace that will benefit us all.    Deirdre really is a woman of steel. Optimistic about the future, and determined to succeed. 

In this episode we speak to Dr Laura Baker, a steel veteran with 19 years of experience under her belt.   Laura is currently head of product management and development for Tata Steel Strip Products. She was the first female president of the metallurgical society in Swansea, heavily involved in the Institute of Materials, minerals and mining (IOM3) and a staunch advocate for women in industry – Laura takes her position as a senior leader in steel seriously.   Laura talks us through her career in steel, what motivates her, the importance of "finding your gang" and believing in the value we each can bring to the table.

According to the Women’s Engineering Society, only 12% of engineers in the UK are women. Yet during schooling girls across the board do better than their male peers at STEM subjects (not including chemistry). So why is it that young girls, who have the capability to achieve, choose not to enter a career with high earning capacity and diverse opportunities across a number of sectors? Is it all to do with gender? In discussion with four recent graduates and relative newcomers to the steel industry, the podcast explores what it means to be a young woman in a traditionally male workplace, the barriers young girls face in choosing a career outside of the 'norm' and how being a women can have its advantages.