Kayleigh carves out a career in engineering

Kayleigh Ward says completing a degree at Teesside University stood her in good stead for a career in engineering with SABIC UK Petrochemicals.

She graduated with a first class degree in BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering and is now working as a development officer in the process engineering team at SABIC, based at the Wilton site, near Redcar.

Kayleigh, 23, of New Marske, completed the degree part-time over five years. She was awarded the Cecil M Yuill Prize for achievement by a female student in any field of engineering. The former student of West Redcar Community School and Redcar and Cleveland College, said: 'While studying for the degree part-time I was sponsored by SABIC UK Petrochemicals to attend Teesside University one day a week while working as a process additive technologist.' Before starting the degree Kayleigh completed two modern apprenticeship schemes at TTE and Corus.

She said: 'The modern apprenticeships helped me gain vital industrial experience along with qualifications including NVQ level 2 and 3 in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities, Key Skills level 2 and BTEC National Certificate in Industrial and Laboratory Applied Science, all which were the golden ticket for entry to the Foundation Degree in Chemical Technology at Teesside University.

'I was then able to take the step on to the chemical engineering degree at Teesside. I knew it would be an excellent qualification to begin my chosen career path.'

My degree has opened so many doors for me She added: 'It has opened so many doors for me and will enable me to progress in my chosen career.

'The degree covers a wide range of engineering core modules. My favourite part of the course was the design project as it brought all aspects of the chemical engineering degree together and gave an insight to work as an engineer after university.”

Kayleigh added: 'What I enjoyed most about Teesside University were the amazing people I met since starting my degree. The course tutors brought the syllabus alive, using different styles of teaching methods. The facilities are up to date and modern, plus as I’m originally from Redcar, it was right on my doorstep.'

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