At Astute, we’re proud to share the stories of women in engineering and highlight their impact in shaping the future of the industry.

In this feature, we spoke with Abi France, Operations Engineer with Intergen at Rocksavage Power Plant, about her journey into engineering, the importance of apprenticeships, and how belief plays a key role in breaking barriers for women in STEM.

Abi France on finding a spark for engineering

For Abi, engineering wasn’t on the cards until her A-levels.

While studying product design, she became intrigued by the engineering classes running alongside.

“I was curious at the electrical practicals and decided to take up the subject. I sought work experience at a local oil refinery which is where I truly found a love to understand how things are made and how projects can come to life.

“My motivation is still the same that I want to understand how things work but I now have an appreciation that the engineering solution isn’t always straight forward.”

The foundation of an apprenticeship

Starting her career through an apprenticeship was a pivotal moment.

“Fundamentally, my apprenticeship has given me the basics to every engineering discipline in industry and how they work together.

“From this, I now have a greater appreciation for the challenges that colleagues face and I can work collectively with them to achieve more for the business.”

This early experience gave Abi both practical skills and a perspective that continues to shape her work as an Operations Engineer.

Inspiring future generations

For Abi, inspiring young people in STEM is one of the most rewarding parts of her career.

“I love seeing a spark in that one young person that may have been overlooked by the traditional education system.

“The personal pride that I have knowing that my one positive impact has the power to create a drive in them to pursue a career in STEM that they may not have previously considered.”

Overcoming barriers for women in engineering

While progress has been made, there are still challenges for women in the industry.

For Abi, one word stands out: belief.

“Belief that we are good enough despite previous perceptions driven by systemic societal views that women can’t be engineers. To ignore those views that will never change and focus on firstly accepting that there is still change that needs to happen.

“Secondly, recognising the language that is used that reinforces the systemic views and when possible, structurally challenging opinions to create subtle meaningful impact to promote equity in industry.”

She highlights how even small changes in language can have a big effect.

For example, reframing “male dominated” industries as “male populated” makes the space feel less isolating for women.

About Abi France

Currently an Operations Engineer with Intergen at Rocksavage Power Plant, Abi began her career through an apprenticeship at TTE Training in Ellesmere Port, sponsored by Essar (now Essar Energy Transition).

She worked as a Shift Technician at Rocksavage before completing her HND at Cronton College, followed by a distance learning top-up degree in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at Portsmouth University.

These experiences paved the way for her current role in operations, where she continues to make an impact.

At Astute, we recognise the importance of representation and equity in STEM. Sharing stories like Abi’s helps to inspire the next generation and create a more inclusive industry.