Rachel Hoyle with students at QLA

A young engineer from BAE Systems was in Qatar to work with schools and universities and look at developing academic potential in the engineering sector.
Rachael Hoyle has concluded her week-long visit which centred on encouraging Qatar’s students to explore careers in what is perceived to be a male-dominated industry.
The visit was part of BAE Systems’ ongoing programme of engagement with educational establishments in Qatar, and included a visit to Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) and the Qatar Leadership Academy (QLA), Al Khor.
Rachael joined BAE Systems from school at 16 and now has eight years of experience in the defence and aerospace industry, completed an apprenticeship at BAE Systems and most recently gained a First Class Honours Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
She is currently working as a Fleet Management Engineer supporting the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft, which is in operation with the Royal Saudi Air Force.
In her presentation to TAMUQ’s Society of Women Engineers, Rachel focused on the exploration of the ‘female engineer’ identity.
Faculty adviser Dr Mashhad Fahes pointed out that Texas A&M University at Qatar has a large female student population, especially in petroleum engineering.
“Rachel Hoyle was able to address some of the students’ concerns about careers in engineering,” he said.
Rachael also visited the Cambridge School for Girls and Qatar Academy, which were arranged in conjunction with TAMUQ.
At the schools she gave presentations on engineering as a potential career, describing the different types of engineering and the professions associated with each field, finishing with a Q&A session, in which students asked Rachael for advice on their future plans as an engineer or scientist.
In a workshop at the QLA in Al Khor, the cadets were guided in a lively discussion in the dynamics of flying aircraft before undertaking the practical task of designing and flying their own fighter jets, in the form of paper aeroplanes.
This workshop was the fourth in a series where BAE Systems and QLA have united to motivate the cadets and stimulate their curiosity in the engineering world.
After the visit, head of Student Affairs, George K D Hopkins said: “Cadets had fun creating their paper typhoons and they enjoyed the contest at the end.”
“Joining BAE Systems was the best thing I could have done,” commented Rachael, “and the apprenticeship scheme has given me opportunities which many of my friends did not have, the most recent of which was graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering with the support of the company.
“As a young woman working in what is usually seen as a ‘man’s world’ my job has not been without its challenges, but I urge anyone with an interest in science and technology to consider it as a career.
“During my visit to Qatar, I have met many young women who clearly have the aptitude and enthusiasm required, so I hope they look to science and engineering as their career of choice,” she added.
Related Story