Bridging the dream gap for diversity and inclusion in engineering: Ambar Yasin's inspiring journey

Guest blog post by Ambar Yasin, Design and Development Graduate at JCB

My love for maths and physics at school is what originally got me into engineering. I took part in the Industrial Cadets programme, which gave me an insight into engineering companies such as Rolls-Royce and Toyota. Seeing a lack of female representation in these companies only inspired me further to be part of the generation that pushes the change for diversity in STEM.

Engineering isn't a ladder, it's a climbing frame

Before entering the industry, I wish I’d known that a career in engineering isn’t a ladder, it’s a climbing frame. It helps to concentrate on learning as many things as you can across different disciplines. Work with as many different people as you can across as many projects as you can get your teeth into. The combined skills and experiences will make you invaluable as an engineer, and will naturally propel your career onwards and upwards!  

There will always be people with misconceptions about female engineers, but my advice would be to take that as an opportunity to prove yourself over and over again. You are capable and you are deserving of every opportunity that comes your way, so make the most of them, and take what you can from every point of your career.

A vision for a diverse and inclusive future in STEM

I love having the opportunity to rotate through different departments and meet new people. Every single person you meet is a fountain of knowledge and unique experiences. You can learn something new every day, and everything you learn helps you work towards being the engineer you strive to be. 

The greatest challenge I have faced in my career is trying to break through stereotypes and misjudged preconceptions. It is important when trying to preserve the rich heritage of British engineering that we don’t forget to welcome the future of engineering into the bigger picture - which looks like me and you! 

The future is diverse and accepting. The future of STEM is colourful and inclusive, and the challenge of being part of this movement is motivating. When I first started my apprenticeship, I struggled to find an accessible women’s toilet. I hope that in the very near future, these problems are a distant memory for the next generation of engineers, and I can’t wait to be a part of this challenge!