As International Women in Engineering Day 2024 was recently celebrated, DYER Engineering highlights Jen Parkins, a standout Production Engineer at the company. With a solid background in Mechanical Engineering, Jen joined in June 2023 and has since played a crucial role in generating routings, drawings, and job packages vital for production. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence ensure timely, high-quality product delivery.
Background
Jen’s engineering journey began in a family of engineers, inspired by her father’s work. She pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Sunderland University, graduating with First Class Honours in 2017. During her studies, she led the Formula Student team, a notable competition involving over 100 European universities. Despite challenges, her team’s participation at Silverstone marked a significant start to her career.
Key Projects
Jen’s career began at Nissan’s casting plant in Washington, where she led metallurgical projects, including developing a patented high-strength alloy. Seeking broader engineering experience, she moved to Grundfos, designing custom pumphouses for Water Utility and Commercial services. One of her notable projects was upgrading Britvic Drinks’ cooling system, saving over £350,000 annually in energy costs.
At DYER Engineering, Jen has been immersed in diverse sectors, particularly fascinated by Defence and Subsea contracts. Currently, she is working on engineering in-line inspection technology for deep-sea pipework for a major oil field services company.
Overcoming Challenges
Jen acknowledges the daily challenges in engineering and emphasises the importance of understanding and addressing issues effectively. She has personally overcome confidence challenges, learning to value her skills and experience.
Advice for Women
Jen encourages younger women to celebrate their achievements and take pride in their accomplishments. She emphasises the importance of knowing one’s worth in a high-pressure environment and taking time to appreciate personal successes.
Industry Improvements
Jen advocates for companies to enhance their DEI culture by supporting women throughout all stages of life, promoting work-life balance, and acknowledging the unique challenges women face. Such support will enable women to excel in their careers while balancing personal responsibilities.
