British Science week is a celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths. This year’s British Science Week (BSW23) is all about ‘connections’ – between ourselves, our actions, and across all areas of science. So here at In2tec, to celebrate it, we’re talking to our amazing engineers and what it is about science that connected with them.
Hannah – Research Assistant
We asked Hannah what connected her to science?
Hannah said, “From the age of 5 or 6 she was fascinated with how the world worked. I was an avid reader of Horrible Sciences magazine and have fond memories of the collection I kept over the years. I would tinker and open things up to see how they worked.”
Q2. What was your inspiration to seek a career as an electronics engineer?
“At home, my parents fostered my love of science, encouraging it from an early age. And I was enthusiastic about science at school. The science teachers were my favourite, and most inspiring of all was my Physics teacher and who made learning great fun. Leaving school, I went on to study physics at university and with my fellow students shared a passion for the subject. It was the practical aspects of Physics that inspired me to pursue a career in engineering.”
Q3. What is it about your job as Research and xx at In2tec that excites you?
“It’s the research and experiments I get to do. It’s so rewarding to feel that I’m making a difference in the innovation of sustainable electronics and it’s what really excites me. Developing solutions that are energy efficient to reduce CO2 emissions and are environmentally sustainable. I love constantly learning, trying new ideas, I enjoy seeing the results and drawing conclusions, adapting them or applying them to develop new solutions.”
Q4. What top tips you would give to a young person interested in a career in science or engineering?
“My advise, if you are interested in any STEM subjects is to take advantage of all learning opportunities, seek out them out, why not join a like science club, go to extra sessions in your lunch breaks and holidays. Be inquisitive, every day learn a bit more about science, technology, engineering and maths, and importantly have fun!”
Fatemeh – Hardware Design and Development Engineer
We asked Fatemeh “what connected her to science”?
Fatemeh said “ Growing up, the vibrant culture of my country and the passion of my family for science served as powerful catalysts that inspired me to explore the fascinating world of scientific discovery. In my homeland, the highest esteem is reserved for those who excel in medicine and engineering, which fuels a collective drive towards these intellectually rewarding fields.
My own family is a shining example of this commitment to scientific achievement. My father, a brilliant architect with a Ph.D., has always been a beacon of inspiration, consistently demonstrating the creativity and rigor that it takes to excel in his field. Meanwhile, my oldest sister, a compassionate and dedicated medical doctor, exemplified the positive impact that science can have on people’s lives. Tragically, we lost her to bone cancer. Her battle with the disease, including a leg amputation to halt the cancer’s spread, was heartbreaking to witness. The cancer had already metastasized to her lungs, and seeing her suffer filled me with both sadness and anger.
Feeling powerless in the face of my sister’s illness, I promised myself to use my knowledge to improve people’s lives through electronic devices. I believe engineers can bridge the gap, enabling doctors to diagnose and treat patients more effectively. We can develop innovative devices to enhance the quality of life for those in need.
Throughout my upbringing, I was fortunate to be surrounded by a family that not only encouraged my curiosity but also fostered a nurturing environment that allowed me to immerse myself in the wonders of science. Their unwavering support and guidance have led me on an incredible journey, one that has connected me deeply to the world of science.
Today, as an electronics engineer, I am grateful for the profound influence my culture and family have had on my life. Their passion for science ignited a spark within me that has grown into a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and discovery. I am proud to be part of a legacy of scientific exploration, and I strive to inspire others just as I have been inspired.”
What was your inspiration to seek a career as an electronics engineer?
From an early age, I was captivated by the world of electronics, drawn to the magic of bringing life to circuits and devices through the power of electrical engineering. My passion was sparked in school, where hands-on experiments with simple circuitry revealed my natural aptitude for the subject. I vividly recall the exhilaration I felt when my first experiment – connecting a battery, a switch, and a fan – came to life. That moment of success ignited a fire within me, an insatiable curiosity that propelled me towards a career in electronics engineering.
A childhood incident further fueled my interest in the field. I was accidentally electrocuted while touching a washing machine during an installation. The fear from that experience lingered, but it also intensified my fascination with electrical systems and the precautions necessary to ensure safety.
Despite encouragement to pursue biology, I couldn’t shake my fascination with engineering. Determined to follow my passion, I made the bold decision to change course just before entering university. I dedicated months to refining my mathematics skills, ultimately earning a coveted spot in an electronics engineering program.
Embarking on my university journey, I quickly discovered that the field of electronics engineering was far more vast and complex than I had initially imagined. The seemingly endless ocean of knowledge before me was both humbling and thrilling. It reinforced my belief that I had made the right choice in pursuing my passion, and it fueled my desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of electronic systems.
Now, as a professional electronics engineer, I remain grateful for the transformative experiences that inspired me to follow my dreams. Every day, I strive to continue exploring the depths of this boundless scientific ocean, overcoming my childhood fears, and inspiring others to embark on their own journey of discovery.
What is it about your job as Hardware design and development engineer at In2tec that excites you?
As a Hardware Design and Development Engineer at In2tec, I am continually invigorated by the dynamic nature of my work, the endless opportunities for growth, and the exceptional team that surrounds me. I am presented with a diverse range of projects, from cutting-edge HyperCar to medical fridge, each offering its own set of challenges and rewards.
This multifaceted environment allows me to expand my knowledge and hone my skills, pushing the boundaries of what I thought possible. Beyond the technical aspects, however, it is the extraordinary team and supportive environment that truly sets In2tec apart. I am privileged to work alongside passionate, dedicated professionals who inspire me to reach new heights and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.
The opportunities I have been given, the genuine involvement in my projects, and the unwavering support from my colleagues make every day at In2tec a fulfilling experience. Even on the busiest of days, I find joy in the knowledge that I am contributing to meaningful projects and making a positive impact on the world. As I return home each evening, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment, knowing that I am part of something truly special at In2tec.”
What top tips/advice you would give to a young person interested in a career in science or engineering?
“To young aspiring scientists and engineers, I would say: the vast universe of science and engineering holds endless possibilities, with boundless opportunities for each individual to discover their unique passion. Once you find the area that captivates your imagination, dive in wholeheartedly. While the initial plunge may be challenging, requiring dedication and perseverance, the rewards of unearthing a pursuit that aligns with your skills and interests are truly priceless.
Never forget that the world of science is ever-evolving, expanding at an astonishing pace. To thrive in this dynamic landscape, it’s crucial to stay informed and continually adapt, embracing the wealth of resources at your fingertips. Seek out new knowledge, collaborate with others, and always strive for self-improvement.
As you embark on your scientific journey, remember that it is your curiosity, passion, and resilience that will propel you forward. Embrace the challenges and revel in the triumphs, for it is through these experiences that you will grow, contribute to the world’s understanding, and inspire future generations to follow in your footsteps.”