International Women's Day: Sammy-Jo Evans, UK Power Networks

Sammy-Jo started as an apprentice back in 2014, graduating to being an Electrical Fitter based at Stansted Airport, before moving to her current role as a Control Engineer based in Ipswich, Suffolk.

“In terms of progression it’s all gone faster for me than I would have imagined. I’m still only 24 and have quite a senior role with a lot of responsibility, I thought I would have been older in reaching this point so that’s been really pleasing.

“This remains an industry, certainly at operational level, in which being a woman does place me in a minority, but I would say even in the seven years I’ve been involved there have been improvements in this regard.

“I can’t deny there was some banter to deal with in a male-dominated workplace, but people are more accepting generally now and hopefully that’s a trend which only continues.

“One of the challenges is feeling that people have confidence in your ability, but that’s about proving yourself and showing what you can do. I was 16 when I started and would always advise any girl that age now to go for it if that’s what they want to do. I sing in a band and have performed in stage shows and when I was 16 I did have the option of looking at performing arts courses, but I felt that this industry would offer me greater job security and I don’t regret that choice.

“This coming year I’ve really got to focus on my work as I have tests to become authorised and progress in my current role. You do still get people bemused when they hear what I do, but when I explain to them what’s involved they generally just think it’s amazing and congratulate me.”