Ellie and Vicky’s Story

“It’s a really welcoming place. Everybody is really friendly, it’s a very positive environment and it makes you feel happy to come here.”

Subjects studied:
Engineering

What’s next:
Progression into careers within engineering and manufacturing.

For Ellie and Vicky, studying Engineering at the STEM & Health Skills Centre has been about much more than developing technical skills. It has been an opportunity to build confidence, meet like-minded people, and take meaningful steps towards their future careers.

Both students were drawn to engineering because they enjoy practical learning and wanted a course that would allow them to apply their skills in a hands-on environment.

“I’m more of a practical person, so seeing the workspace here and all the machinery, I knew this would be the right place for me,” explained Ellie.

The industry-standard facilities at the STEM & Health Skills Centre immediately helped students see the opportunities available to them and how their learning could connect to future careers.

For Vicky, one of the biggest concerns before starting was whether she would fit in.

“I was definitely really nervous that I was going to be the only girl on the course,” she said. “I was really happy when I saw a few other girls that I would be able to relate to.”

That feeling quickly disappeared as she settled into College life and became part of a welcoming and supportive community.

“Everybody is really friendly. It’s a very positive environment and it makes you feel happy to come here.”

Students describe the Centre as a place where everyone is encouraged to succeed, regardless of their background or experience. The supportive atmosphere has helped them develop confidence both inside and outside the workshop.

“It’s just a really welcoming place. It’s very fun to be here.”

The course has also helped students explore the areas of engineering that interest them most. For Ellie, fabrication and welding have become particular passions.

“I’ve always been really into welding, so fabrication is somewhere I’d like to go in the future. I’m not really sure where I’ll go with it yet, but it’s definitely something I’ve always been interested in.”

As they continue their studies, both students are focused on building their skills and exploring the many opportunities available within the engineering sector.

Their advice for anyone considering a future in STEM is simple: believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to pursue what interests you.

“Follow your dreams. Don’t let other people put you down and just keep persevering,” said Vicky.

Ellie agrees.

“Just go for it. It doesn’t really matter what other people think. If that’s what you like, then go for it.”

Their experiences show that studying Engineering is not only about gaining technical knowledge. It is about becoming part of a supportive community, developing confidence and discovering where your ambitions can take you. At the STEM & Health Skills Centre, Ellie and Vicky have found a place where they can develop their skills, build lasting friendships and take their next steps towards exciting futures in engineering.