Bethany Haynes EngTech MIMechE

Engineering Technician

Growing up

As a young child I was always playing with Jenga blocks and Lego. When I was a bit older we found a pop-up shop selling wooden toys, I was fascinated by these and still am. I love the Christmas markets with wooden toy stalls and they still draw me in each time.

It came as no surprise that, at secondary school, I excelled in practical subjects, coming out with top marks for Product Design. After taking A levels in Drama, Geography and Product Design, I went on to study Joinery at college. I was the only female on the course, but I grew up with three brothers so I’ve always felt at ease in male company.

It was when I started college that I got my first wood chisel set, so I was able to start making things at home. They are my pride and joy, and I still use them to this day. My favourite thing I’ve made, so far, was a chess board for my brother. I designed and made the board using hardwood veneers and solid wood edging, then went on to 3D print the pieces to complete the set, my brother added the finishing touches by painting the models I’d printed.

Role models

There was a Technician at my secondary school, that I really looked up to. He was knowledgeable, patient and he was always pushing me to achieve more. When he retired, the school created a new apprenticeship position, which I was lucky enough to get. I really valued having someone to show me the way when I was struggling at school and felt proud to become that person for the young people I was working with.

Once I completed my apprenticeship I worked as a Construction Technician at City College Coventry and then moved to WMG Academy in Coventry. It was here that I first heard about WMG, it sounded incredible and I was eager to learn more.

I’ve worked at WMG as a Technician for just over six years now. Every day is different, and I get to work on a really good variety of projects. I’m also lucky enough to help with Outreach activities and to support with work experience programmes working with young engineers - which I love.

While at WMG I have achieved my professional registration with the IMechE, this is a huge achievement as I don’t have any formal engineering qualifications. I’m also privileged to be part of the Technicians exhibit at the Science Museum in London, enabling others to see that being a technician is a great career option.

There’s a brilliant team of Technicians here (at WMG) all with different areas and levels of expertise. It’s a great atmosphere and we all support each other.

Go for it

Starting anything new can be daunting, but if you’re passionate about something just go for it, the worst someone can say is no. So I’d rather try it and be told no or find out it’s not for me than sit there wondering what if.