Pupils from Sully Primary School have had an insight into what it’s like to be at the forefront of an engineering career after spending the day at Tarmac’s Aberthaw cement quarry in celebration of International Women in Engineering Day (23 June).
The event, which was also attended by Vale of Glamorgan MP Alun Cairns, was held to celebrate the diverse engineering and technical careers available to women and was led the plant’s own quarry manager, Nicola Bartholomey.
As part of the event, the Year 4 and 5 pupils learnt about the history of the quarry site and the work involved at the plant. They also learned about the importance of safety and the hidden dangers that can be present, such as cold, deep water, before learning about the ways in which cement is transported across the UK, paying particular attention to road safety.
One pupil to take part in the event was pupil Eleanor Bradbury, age 10, who said:
“It was a really interesting day – I had no idea of the different careers and jobs that make up working at a plant like Aberthaw. It was great to hear Nicola’s story as to how she came to become the quarry manager and it really brought the career path she took to life and certainly gave me food for thought as to the avenues available to me as I get older.”
Nicola, who has been involved in the quarrying industry for 15 years, had her first taste of the industry after working in a laboratory testing concrete and aggregates. Collecting samples from quarries, she watched her first blast and knew it was the career path she wanted to follow. Nicola was appointed Aberthaw quarry manager in 2013.
Speaking at the event, Nicola said:
“We are delighted to welcome pupils from Sully Primary and give them an insight into what a career in engineering can involve. Locally, there are so many opportunities for young people and I hope today has given them food for thought.
“Managing the quarry is exciting day in, day out and I hope that everyone has been able to have an insight into life here. I am passionate about championing women in engineering so it is always a pleasure to meet and to try to inspire young women to become tomorrow's engineers.”
Set up in 2014 by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) to celebrate its 95th anniversary, International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) focuses attention on the amazing careers in engineering and technical roles, especially for girls and young women, and celebrates the achievements of women engineers. INWED is a fun and inspiring way for schools, colleges and universities to encourage students to take up engineering careers, but also companies, professional organisations, government and individuals to showcase their commitment to diversity.
Alun Cairns MP was at the event and said:
“As the United Kingdom opens its doors to a world of opportunities, it is vital that our younger generations are equipped with the education and skills that they need to take on the world of work and industry.
“Engineering is key to this country’s future and therefore must be encouraged amongst children of all ages and backgrounds, who show interest and flare in this very prevalent industry.
“As the local Member of Parliament, I would like to thank Aberthaw Cement for hosting this insightful event. If even one child is inspired to take up a career in engineering following their visit to the site, this event will have been very worthwhile!”
Aberthaw Cement Plant is the only cement works in south Wales. Cement made at Aberthaw has contributed to some of Wales’ most significant construction projects of recent time, including Pembroke Power Station, The Millennium Centre and home of the Welsh Government - The Senedd, both in Cardiff Bay.
For more information on Aberthaw Cement Plant visit the website www.tarmac.com/aberthaw-plant