Katie is an analytical engineering graduate with a first class master’s degree in Instrumentation and Control from Teesside University. Employed at Jacobs since September 2022 as a Graduate EC&I Engineer, she applies her educational background to projects, excelling in software like Matlab, AutoCad, and Navisworks. Skilled in leadership, problem-solving, and analytical thinking, she has contributed to projects such as Shaft & Silo in Dounreay and MMF at AWE which have involved design and implementation of communication systems. As an IET member, Katie brings a comprehensive skill set to her engineering role at Jacobs.

Shervin Yousefzadeh currently leads the strategy for the construction sector at GS1 UK, drawing on his strong experience as a previous Head of Digital Construction. His main goal is to build important relationships within the industry and promote the use of GS1 standards. His extensive experience in Building Information Modelling, coupled with significant contributions to transformative projects like the Transpennine Route Upgrade – West, continually shapes his approach. Now, Shervin is dedicated to showcasing the benefits of standardised practices in construction, aiming to make a lasting impact in the industry.

“After completing my Masters course at BCU I became UX Designer at MIS Marine, a software company which specialises in providing bespoke experiences for companies in the marine industry. Since joining, my role has been to expand the UX practices and assist with the upcoming UI rewrite to modernise our current systems. I will be discussing my experiences working in a small UX team, highlighting previous projects and design challenges. Our applications act as a tool for effective vetting and safeguarding of vessels to minimise risk and pollution. We are also involved in improving operational efficiency and ensuring businesses are acting in compliance with environmental laws.”

Brian Grellmann is UX Research and Accessibility Lead at Aviva. He leads a team of 14 UX and Accessibility practitioners within the User Centred Design function. Brian completed his Masters in Human-Computer Interaction Design at City, University of London and his experience varies across academia, non-profit, and private sector. His talk will introduce the Aviva team and the various ways they engage the business in user centred design methods, as well as some guidance and advice on entering the industry, embracing uncertainty, and finding success.

Fayon Dixon is a seasoned broadcaster, events host, and facilitator with a steadfast dedication to inspiring and motivating others for close to two decades. Her passion for fostering positive change extends to her advocacy for equality and diversity in engineering careers. As an ambassador for STEM projects, Fayon collaborates with children, students, and professional engineers to promote inclusivity and representation in the field. Currently serving as an Engagement Manager at EqualEngineers, Fayon utilises her diverse skill set to drive transformative initiatives aimed at shaping the future of engineering for generations to come.

“At CERN, our work helps to uncover what the universe is made of and how it works. We do this by providing a unique range of particle accelerator facilities to researchers, to advance the boundaries of human knowledge. Our mission is to:
• Perform world-class research in fundamental physics.
• Provide a unique range of particle accelerator facilities that enable research at the forefront of human knowledge, in an environmentally responsible and sustainable way.
• Unite people from all over the world to push the frontiers of science and technology, for the benefit of all.
• Train new generations of physicists, engineers, and technicians, and engage all citizens in research and in the values of science.
Cooperation between nations, universities and scientists is the driving force behind CERN’s research.”

“MSSL is a world-leading space science laboratory. Based in the Surrey Hills near Dorking, MSSL has been developing cutting-edge space research and space technology for over 50 years. Our research covers all aspects of space research, from understanding the Sun and its interaction with the planets, to understanding galaxies and the matter that makes up the universe. We build and operate cutting edge space hardware for multinational space missions. We also offer state-of-the-art test facilities for ground and space-based technology. The Department offers a range of post-graduate taught course based on our space and technology research. We also offer research degrees and short courses for continuous professional development.”

After graduating with a degree in Horology, Keith decided to take a risk and set up his own company. Over 30 years later, Keith now manages a large team of skilled workers who look after some of the world’s most famous clocks, including their recent restoration work on Big Ben, Royal Liver Building in Liverpool, Hampton Court Palace, Manchester Town Hall’s clock, as well as historic London Underground clocks.

With an exciting future ahead, his main goal is to now give back to his industry, as he prepares to offer excellent opportunities to current students. “We’re keen to put back into the system what we got out of it, as without the School of Jewellery, I wouldn’t be where I am now. The company are now working alongside BCU to offer work experience opportunities. We just think it’s really important to give students an understanding of both the industry and business, and experience part of our world.”

Dr Pamela Murrell has spent her working life in the metals and/or foundry industry. She leads a small but dedicated and professional team who provide the high level of service that both members and key stakeholders have come to expect from CMF. The Cast Metals Federation works to foster development, collaboration and innovation in the UK casting industry, in partnership with businesses and stakeholders, to promote good practice and represent the Best of British casting across the globe. As the single voice for the UK foundry industry, CMF promotes the UK castings industry as a whole, influencing discussions with government bodies, negotiating and consulting on UK and European legislation that affects us all.

Vectorworks has become a global leader in design technologies for the architecture, engineering, construction, entertainment, and landscape design industries. Their product line is one of the world’s best-selling cross-platform design and BIM applications, and users rely on it to create ground-breaking experiences, environments, and destinations.

Vectorworks has played a formative role in the CAD field, having created one of the first CAD programs, one of the first 3D modeling programs, the most successful CAD software for the Mac OS, and the first cross-platform CAD application to market. Vectorworks was also one of the first to introduce BIM capabilities, before BIM became an industry buzzword. They have since redefined the marketplace by setting a high standard for its products, continually optimizing them for new technologies while delivering solutions that support the many workflows and design processes of our users. As a result, Vectorworks has become an internationally respected leader in both CAD and BIM solutions tailored to design, with more than 685,000 designers relying on Vectorworks technology.