Laura Edwards
Operations Superintendent at Valero
Think about what you want to do before making your A level choices. Keep your options open where you can (Maths and Physics are key to any Engineering career), but it's important to choose subjects you enjoy too. And most of all believe in yourself, listen to feedback and don't be afraid to ask questions. If you have an interest in a certain industry or career, contact local companies to arrange work experience. If you don't know who to contact, try your local University or college department who may be able to put you in contact with someone. If you choose the right career, work doesn’t need to be something you do because you have to. You could really enjoy being at work every day, like I do!
Laura is a...
About Laura...
Who am I?
"In my role I need to be able to troubleshoot and interpret information from multiple sources to make effective decisions, which fits with my Investigator personality. My Explorer personality trait is helpful as I also need to react innovatively to think of solutions to new problems. I am also responsible for maintaining safe operation and ensuring rules and regulations are followed, so a Quality Controller personality is extremely useful in this role."
What do I do?
"My job is to manage an Operating Unit at an Oil Refinery. I have to look at and interpret information from multiple disciplines and bring that together to work out the best way to operate my equipment. I come up with ideas on how to improve the plant and put together proposals for projects to solve problems and make things work more effectively and efficiently."
How did I get here?
"My Design Technology teacher encouraged me to follow my passion for engineering. My personality types were suited to Engineering as a career, and with a keen interest in Chemistry, I decided to study Chemical Engineering. I went straight into this industry but have worked in a number of different roles at my site. Working in a number of departments helped me to understand more about my industry and how the refinery fits together as a whole. I developed my technical skills and provided myself a solid technical base by working on various projects, before moving towards management roles. "
The life I live
"I love listening to live music, and take every opportunity I can to do so. I like camping and travelling. I now have a young child so like nothing more than spending time with my family in my spare time."
My typical day
"A typical day starts with reviewing performance of my equipment and looking for opportunities to improve. I review reports from different teams to determine if any new investigations need to be completed. I arrange maintenance on equipment that needs fixing and give guidance to operations teams on how to operate the unit the best way. Completing safety assessments and talking to people and helping them make good decisions is a frequent part of my role."
My qualifications
"A Levels in Chemistry, Maths, Physics and AS Level EconomicsMasters Degree (MEng) in Chemical Engineering with an Industrial PlacementChartered Engineer with IChemE / Engineering CouncilAPM Project Management Qualification"
Laura's Photos
