The theme for this year’s INWED, ‘Together We Engineer’, resonates strongly at FANUC UK, where women are not only breaking ground but shaping the future of engineering and automation.
A Journey from Apprentice to Key Account Manager
Michelle Bottrill knows what it means to be a pioneer. As FANUC UK’s first-ever apprentice, she’s spent 27 years forging a career in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
“In the late 90s, there were very few women in engineering — in my college class of 30, only two of us were female,” Michelle recalls. “Some colleagues doubted my ability, others were overprotective, but it only made me more determined.”
Now a Key Account Manager for Automotive, Michelle has held diverse roles, from Project Engineer to Customer Service Manager. Her advice to young women considering engineering?
“You’ve got nothing to lose. There are fantastic opportunities out there — go for it.”
Finding a Passion for Automation
Hara Konstantelia, a Technical Sales Support Engineer, moved to the UK from Greece at 15, excelling in maths before securing a place on an engineering apprenticeship at the Manufacturing Technology Centre.
Although only five of her 36-strong cohort were female, a hands-on experience with robotics was a pivotal moment:
“I knew this was what I wanted to do,” she explains. “My robotics trainer was a mentor who encouraged me to join FANUC.”
Six years into her career at FANUC’s Coventry HQ, Hara has occasionally faced scepticism from new customers but thrives on proving herself.
“I enjoy demonstrating that I’m here on merit,” she says.
Hara now mentors young people in STEM, supports WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics competitors, and regularly speaks at schools to promote careers in automation.
A Rising Star in Engineering
Charlotte Armson joined FANUC aged 16 and recently completed a four-year apprenticeship in Electrical Engineering.
Praised by her manager, James Pointer, for her initiative and technical skills, Charlotte made her mark wiring a robotic system for CNC Speedwell, later installing it at Mazak.
Unfazed in new surroundings and known for her keen attention to detail, Charlotte represents the next generation of engineering talent, showing that ability, not gender, defines success.
Together We Engineer
While women currently make up just 16.5% of the UK’s engineering workforce, stories like Michelle’s, Hara’s and Charlotte’s prove that meaningful progress is happening.
FANUC UK’s female engineers are not only succeeding in their roles but actively working to inspire the next generation of women in engineering — helping to ensure that the phrase ‘Together We Engineer’ is more than just a theme, but a reality.
