This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” underscores the need for greater inclusivity and equity for women. It emphasises the urgency of advancing gender equality, highlighting that at the current pace, it could take until 2158 to achieve full parity.
While advancements have been made in creating opportunities for women within the scientific, technical, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) sectors, work still needs to be done. This includes improving job prospects, fostering career advancement, increasing representation in senior leadership roles, and ensuring equal pay on a global scale.
Fortunately, a growing number of companies are actively taking steps to close these gaps, leading to increased opportunities for women. In that spirit, we’re delighted to share the story of Sinead Brady, a Quality Coordinator who will share insights from her personal experience in the field and with Evolve. She discusses what drew her to the scientific industry, highlights her profession, and offers valuable advice for aspiring women in STEM looking to start or advance their careers.
Q1. Tell us a bit about your career journey
I studied Food Science and Nutrition. After I finished my degree, I landed a casual role as a Laboratory Technician in a dairy manufacturing facility through Evolve. After this, I became permanent as a Quality Assurance Technician for 3.5 years and then moved through various quality roles in the company - Factory Hygiene Coordinator, Quality & Environment Systems Coordinator and then Technical Team Leader leading a team of 5 lab-based members. After 7.5 years with this company, I decided on a new challenge and moved to a Quality Coordinator role in a meat manufacturer where I am currently based.
Q2. What motivated you to pursue a career in science?
I liked science subjects in high school, such as Chemistry and Food Technology, and thought I would combine the two in the Food Science sector.
Q3. Reflect on your experience working in the scientific field - what aspects do you find most enjoyable and fulfilling?
I enjoy the challenges of food science and also quality control where I can see a change in the factory environment and quality of the food I love.
Q4. If you could offer advice to the next generation of women considering a career in science - what would it be?
Give it a go! There are lots of different opportunities in the Science industry and every day can be different and interesting.
Q5. Lastly, you have worked with the Evolve team for the last number of years - How has your experience been?
Evolve has been great. First coming out of University, I reached out to them and they found me a role well suited to me quite quickly. When I decided for a change, they were very helpful in highlighting opportunities available to me that they knew I would enjoy and could utilise my experience and skills.
Thank you to Sinead for taking the time to answer our questions and share her insights for women in the scientific sector. To learn about the achievements of other women in the field, take a look at Kim’s story.
If these stories inspire you and you're looking to advance your career, explore our latest job opportunities today.
