Degree studied and university:
BSc (Hons) First Class: Chemistry with Professional Practice (part-time), Nottingham Trent University.
PhD Polymer Science: “Controlled Polymerisation and Industrial Application of Poly-2-Chloro-1,3-Butadiene”, Aston University, Birmingham.
Current Role at 3M:
Advanced Product Development Engineer, ASD/AAD, Atherstone.
What attracted you to join 3M?
After my PhD, I was working in academia as a post-doctorate researcher. I’d had a horrendous week at work, so did a quick scan of vacancies in and around my area; 3M were advertising, so I applied very much off the cuff. And the rest, as they say, is history…
What have you done since joining 3M?
Of highest importance is the fact that I’ve had a good time & lots of laughs with the people around me…
Work-wise, I’ve been fortunate enough to work on key development projects for AAD & ASD with some excellent people. Already, we’re achieving great things, such as manufacturing certain types of product which this plant has not before attempted. This role is a varied one, involving R&D, engineering re: production processes and applications, VOC, project planning, etc.; each day is different and there’s a lot of juggling to manage.
What do you enjoy most and least about your job at 3M?
I love the environment – Atherstone’s personnel are largely a fun, friendly bunch, up for a chat and banter. Those I work with are definitely the most enjoyable part of my job.
In contrast and similar to my previous roles, I least like being behind a computer. I prefer the practical elements of the job and going out to actually speak with people, rather than the volume of email traffic and administration.