Miss Wales hopeful urges women to consider careers in manufacturing
A MISS Wales finalist from Pencoed has urged women to explore careers in manufacturing.
Hannah Williams, who works for Sony UK Technology Centre, said there are many opportunities for women in the industry.
The 23-year-old sourcing officer, based at the specialist Pencoed manufacturing facility, has been selected as a finalist in this year’s prestigious pageantry competition.
But the Cardiff University graduate isn’t taking the opportunity lightly.
She is using her time to speak out about the thriving opportunities for women in engineering and manufacturing professions in Wales.
Miss Williams felt compelled to support the industry after graduating with a business management degree from Cardiff University and entering the medical manufacturing sector before joining Sony UK TEC.
As a vital member of the manufacturing facility, Miss Williams helps to support the production of thousands of HD broadcast and professional cameras for global distribution.
She is now hoping that other women will follow in her footsteps and consider a “rewarding” career in manufacturing and engineering.
She said: “Many women may not even think about a career in manufacturing.
“Luckily I have always been influenced by my family’s roles within different business areas. They previously worked in manufacturing in Wales and this is something that I’ve grown up with.
“Since I have been working in industry and manufacturing, I have noticed that although sectors are trying to diversify, it is still proving difficult to attract young women in to science, technology, engineering and maths (Stem) professions, therefore the female talent that has reached the senior levels are much fewer.
“I believe there is so much opportunity for more young people to join our industry; I have learnt so many skills, and the innovations you get to be a part of are really exciting and rewarding.”
The business management graduate is among just 9% of women who make up the engineering workforce across the UK.
According to statistics from Women’s Engineer- ing Society (Wes), the UK has the lowest percentage of female engineering professionals throughout Europe.
Sony UK TEC said it has led the way in promoting gender diversity among its workforce, with almost 40% of its workforce made up of women.
Sony UK TEC director of professional services Gerald Kelly said: “We are delighted to fully support Hannah in her bid to become Miss Wales.
“We applaud her decision to use the platform to raise funds for charitable causes across Wales and to highlight the benefits of Stem and engineering careers for women.
“Manufacturing is a highly rewarding industry which can lead to a diverse range of career paths for our skilled workforce.
“We wish Hannah every success and look forward to supporting her as the competition progresses.”