Women in STEM: Abi France, Operations Engineer

At Astute, we’re proud to share the stories of women in STEM UK-wide and highlight their impact in shaping the future of the industry.

In this feature, we spoke with Abi France, Operations Engineer with Intergen at Rocksavage Power Plant, about her journey into engineering, the importance of apprenticeships, and how belief plays a key role in breaking barriers for women in STEM UK-wide.

Abi France on Finding a Spark for Engineering

“I was curious at the electrical practicals and decided to take up the subject. I sought work experience at a local oil refinery which is where I truly found a love to understand how things are made and how projects can come to life.

“My motivation is still the same that I want to understand how things work but I now have an appreciation that the engineering solution isn’t always straight forward.”

The Foundation of an Apprenticeship

“Fundamentally, my apprenticeship has given me the basics to every engineering discipline in industry and how they work together.

“From this, I now have a greater appreciation for the challenges that colleagues face and I can work collectively with them to achieve more for the business.”

This early experience gave Abi both practical skills and a perspective that continues to shape her work as an Operations Engineer. If you’re considering a similar route, our guide to STEM apprenticeships across UK industries covers the options available.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in STEM UK-Wide

“I love seeing a spark in that one young person that may have been overlooked by the traditional education system.

“The personal pride that I have knowing that my one positive impact has the power to create a drive in them to pursue a career in STEM that they may not have previously considered.”

Overcoming Barriers for Women in Engineering

“Belief that we are good enough despite previous perceptions driven by systemic societal views that women can’t be engineers. To ignore those views that will never change and focus on firstly accepting that there is still change that needs to happen.

“Secondly, recognising the language that is used that reinforces the systemic views and when possible, structurally challenging opinions to create subtle meaningful impact to promote equity in industry.”

She highlights how even small changes in language can have a big effect.

For example, reframing “male dominated” industries as “male populated” makes the space feel less isolating for women — a shift in framing that aligns with wider guidance from bodies like the Institution of Mechanical Engineers on improving inclusion in engineering.

About Abi France

Currently an Operations Engineer with Intergen at Rocksavage Power Plant, Abi began her career through an apprenticeship at TTE Training in Ellesmere Port, sponsored by Essar (now Essar Energy Transition).

She worked as a Shift Technician at Rocksavage before completing her HND at Cronton College, followed by a distance learning top-up degree in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at Portsmouth University.

These experiences paved the way for her current role in operations, where she continues to make an impact. Her career path reflects a route into the sector we cover more widely in our power plant engineer careers guide.

At Astute, we recognise the importance of representation and equity in women in STEM UK-wide. Sharing stories like Abi’s helps to inspire the next generation and create a more inclusive industry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Women in STEM UK

What route did Abi France take into engineering as one of the women in STEM UK-wide?
She started with an apprenticeship at TTE Training, sponsored by Essar, then worked as a Shift Technician while completing an HND and later a distance-learning degree in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering — earning her qualifications alongside real, hands-on experience.

How can language help or hinder women in STEM UK-wide?
Small shifts matter. Abi points to reframing “male dominated” industries as “male populated,” a subtle change that can make workplaces feel less isolating and more welcoming to women considering engineering careers.

How can I get involved or featured as part of women in STEM UK-wide storytelling?
Astute’s Women in STEM series is always looking for new stories from engineers and technical professionals willing to share their journey and help inspire the next generation.

Want to Be Featured in Our Women in STEM UK Series?

If you’d like to be featured in Astute’s Women in STEM series, get in touch today!