Former pupil Lauren Neal, Class of ‘02 is making waves in the male-dominated field of Engineering. Named one of the UK’s top female computing students at the age of 18, Lauren has carved a successful career in engineering, becoming a champion for gender equity and diversity.
After graduating with a master’s degree in electronic and electrical engineering, Lauren embarked on a journey that has taken her across the globe. She has worked on multimillion-dollar projects in countries such as Angola, Trinidad, Azerbaijan and Indonesia, gaining valuable experience in both onshore and offshore environments. Her expertise has been recognized by professional bodies, with certifications from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the Association of Project Management (APM).
In addition to her technical skills, Lauren is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As a certified IC Agile team facilitator and coach, she focuses on improving team dynamics and fostering a more collaborative work environment. Neal’s commitment to empowering women in STEM is evident in her work, as she actively supports businesses in creating more diverse and inclusive workforces.
Returning to Robert Gordon’s College for the S6 Lecture Series, Lauren Lauren delivered a thought-provoking speech to S6 students. She shared insights into her career path, highlighting the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Neal emphasised the importance of pursuing passions and maintaining integrity throughout your career. She also offered advice to students who may be unsure about their future, reassuring them that it is perfectly acceptable to change their minds and explore different paths.
Following her lecture, Lauren engaged in a focused Q&A session with S6 students interested in engineering. She answered questions about her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and the opportunities available in the field. Neal also provided guidance on choosing a university, obtaining internships, and building a professional network. Her insights were invaluable to the pupils, who were eager to learn more about the engineering profession.
Lauren shared: “It was brilliant being back at the college and seeing how little and, at the same time, how much has changed! A big thank you to Morven and Ananth for their wonderful tour, and to the rest of the sixth years for allowing me to share my experiences in the workplace since I left school. I can’t believe it’s been 22 years!”
Lauren Neal’s inspiring story serves as a testament to the potential of women in STEM. Her achievements and advocacy work are paving the way for future generations of female engineers and scientists. As she continues to make a significant impact on the industry, Lauren’s best selling book, Valued at Work will continue to provide tools and drive real change, because only a truly empowered, diverse workforce can drive the best business outcomes and innovations.