International Women in Engineering Day #INWED24

Biggleswade, UK — 23rd June 2024 —

In celebration of June 23 and International Women in Engineering day, Monika Cichocka, a valued Mechanical Design Engineer has penned a blog on her experience as an innovator at Smith Myers….

My Engineering Experience

From a young age, I have always been intrigued by aviation. Growing up, I had numerous opportunities to engage with various aspects of this field, including model aircraft, drones, and gliders, each providing me with unique insights into the world of aviation. These early experiences sparked a passion in me, leading me to pursue aerospace engineering as my degree.

My academic journey in aerospace engineering has been extraordinary, deepening my understanding of the theoretical foundations and exposing me to numerous areas of this field that went previously unnoticed by the untrained eye of an enthusiast. Among the many subjects I studied, Computer-Aided Engineering stood out in particular. It combined theoretical knowledge with practical application, offering a comprehensive view of the engineering process. From creating components and selecting appropriate materials to testing their properties and analysing the airflow, witnessing the entire process from start to finish was truly remarkable and reinforced my passion for engineering.

Throughout my studies, I had the opportunity to work on various projects that allowed me to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world scenarios. These hands-on experiences were invaluable, enhancing my technical skills and teaching me the importance of teamwork.

Currently, I am using the skills I acquired at university in my role as a Mechanical Design Engineer at Smith Myers Communications. In this position, I continue to apply and expand my engineering knowledge. My responsibilities include designing and developing mechanical components, conducting material selection and testing to ensure we make the best products possible. This role has helped me develop my skills further, learn from other engineers, and expand beyond my original expertise. It has provided me with incredible opportunities and shown me the value of being part of this extraordinary community.

In addition to my technical responsibilities, I am also committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the field of engineering. As this is still a male-dominated field, I strive to be a role model for young girls and aspiring female engineers. By sharing my experiences and encouraging others to pursue their passions, I hope to help create a more inclusive and diverse engineering community.

In summary, my journey from a young aviation enthusiast to a professional aerospace engineer has been driven by a deep passion for the field and a desire to contribute to its advancement. I look forward to continuing to grow and make a positive impact in the engineering world.