Nicole Ford

"My Influencer ensures I have a good eye for detail. Trainer is great for knowledge sharing and explaining ideas to other people. Explorer is also helpful to clearly understand what is happening with a design and why this is so. "

"My job as an Assistant Signalling Design Engineer involves rail design engineering. This involves assisting designers with electrical design for cables and the general signalling of the railway. Out on the track the designs that I am involved in would help control the general running of the railway and the layout of it, from the signals and point machines, to the power supplied to the cabling and signalling equipment. This all allows rail passengers to have a safe journey to their destination. I like being involved in design projects and being able to go out and test the design and see them in real life out working on the track."

"I look up to a few people at work, in the media and have huge support at home. No one has inspired me to enter this career but support and encouragement from family has certainly helped."

"In my spare time I enjoy playing the violin and practicing karate, as well as spending time with my friend and family. I am also a Brownie leader, helping to run a group on a weekly basis, which I love being involved in."

"A typical day will involve drawing equipment, cables, doing calculations, and sorting out drawings."

"Secondary education (GCSE/O-Levels) Post secondary education (College, A-levels, NVQ3 or equivalent) A -Level Product Design (B), English Language & Literature (C), AS Maths, NVQ level 3 Engineering Vocational qualification (Diploma, Certificate, BTEC, NQV4 or equivalent) HNC in Electrical/Electronic Engineering (Distinction), BTEC Level 3 Electrical/Electronic Engineering (double distinction star) Apprenticeship (please specify level in other) Level 3 advanced apprenticeship Work related courses (railway industry) Currently putting me through HND in Electrical/Electronic Engineering. "