Meet our Alumni: Zoe Percival
Alumna, Zoe Percival, has gone on to study a degree in Manufacturing and Engineering at Coventry University, after studying at the UTC.
Zoe joined the UTC in Year 12 to study A Levels in Chemistry, Physics and Maths, alongside a technical qualification in Engineering.
She says: “I wasn’t interested in Engineering when I was looking at colleges, but having a college that was geared towards STEM subjects really interested me. I really loved Science so left my options open by choosing the UTC and now I couldn’t see myself doing anything but Engineering.
Zoe thought the UTC offered something unique: “Choosing the UTC meant I exposed myself to employers and the industry. I enjoyed working on different employer projects, with companies such as Lubrizol and SNC Lavalin, learning about mechanical principles and putting our theory to the test. These experiences developed my confidence and ability to present effectively and I wouldn’t have had these opportunities if I’d not moved school.”
Zoe is now in the third year of her degree, which includes an integrated masters. “Being exposed to Engineering before studying my degree has been very helpful and it has put me in a better position. I’ve used the lathes, milling machines and 3D printers and got to work with Rolls-Royce and Bombardier on some great, hands on projects.
“There’s also more of a personal relationship with the staff and that made me feel like I was treated like an adult in a business-like environment.
“If you want to go down the Engineering route then definitely come here. Even if it’s to do A Level Chemistry, Physics and Maths, but with an Engineering focus, you can still come here.”
Zoe is very proud to be a female going into Engineering, as she feels women are underrepresented across the sector. “From what I’ve seen of the girls here, it does not bother them that lots of the students studying Engineering are boys. There’s nothing that should stop you from doing it, especially if it’s something you’re interested in. When you’re in a classroom you’re not treated any differently and you learn so much about the industry.”
Zoe is looking forward to completing her degree and hopes to work with a top Engineering firm after she graduates.