This week, Bucks is celebrating the achievements and sharing the views of our female leaders, students, and staff for International Women's Day (IWD).

Lucy Loch graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering Design in 2016 and was the only woman among 20 people on her course.

The mum-of-two is now a mechanical application engineer for manufacturing and engineering company Northern Europe and has spoken to us about forging a career in a male-dominated world.

How old were you when you began your degree at Bucks, Lucy?

I was 24 but had been out of education for eight years, since leaving school at 16.

What was it like returning to study?

It was very daunting as I had been in a situation where I didn’t think university would ever be an option for me. Finding our you’re expecting a baby at age 18 makes you think you have very limited options but starting university felt like a fresh start for me.

As soon as I started my degree I realised I wasn’t going to be a ‘teenage mum’ anymore and I was on a path to a professional career.

I have two daughters, Elsie, 11, and Kaya, nine, and have been able to balance life as a mum with my career.

What support did you receive from the university in balancing your studies as a new mum?

I always felt fully supported by my lecturers and they always made sure everyone on the course was treated equally, regardless of our different ages.

Why did you choose to study Mechanical Engineering Design?

I have always loved science and maths but after I left school I was a bit lost with what I wanted to do.

After having children I went to college to study an access to science course and during that time I found my favourite topics were chemistry and maths. This fitted with mechanical engineering as I could concentrate on materials and how they’re used.

What was it like being the only woman on the course? 

It didn’t bother me too much. I made friends on my course but was just never invited to the Students’ Union!

What would be your advice to other women who would like to study similar courses?

Being female won’t hold you back, your attitude will be the issue. Be confident in your abilities and what you can bring to the STEM world.

You will, in any sector, find people who you don’t get on with but eventually you will find a company/manager that truly values you and will develop and support your career.

What does your current role entail?

I am a mechanical application engineer for Northern Europe. In my day-to-day role I produce CAD drawings, design bespoke products for integration, help take builds to manufacture, and mentor two apprentices!

I am the only female in the engineering office. My colleagues are nothing but helpful, respectful and supportive of me. In my current role I’ve not had any issues being female, or the only single parent! I am very fortunate to have found a really great company.

What are your future career aspirations?

My goal would to be an engineering manager. I am currently on a leadership and management course provided by my workplace to develop my skills for a future role in our business. The future is very bright!

International Women's Day (IWD) 2020 

IWD is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year’s theme is Each for Equal, with the aim that an equal world is an enabled world.

Follow Bucks New University’s website and social media this week to see our activity for IWD 2020.

Please also share news and information about your events by linking to the University's Twitter feed at @bucksnewuni and Bucks Students' Union's at @buckssu using #IWD2020 and #EachforEqual.

Picture captions: Lucy Loch graduating, with daughters Elsie and Kaya; and at work with the apprentices she is mentoring.