Rachel Curtis

"My personality types were Quality Controller, Influencer and Manager. As a regulator, I think I fit particularly well with the personality traits of Quality Controller because I work to keep people safe, I challenge the way things are done, I am good with detail and I am fair, honest and ethical. The personality traits of Quality Controller, Influencer and Manager all relate to being able to work well on my own and in a team, being good with detail and being able to communicate well with others. This is essential for my work, where I communicate with a range of people and I must be open minded, proactive and adaptable. "

"I am an External Hazards Specialist Inspector at the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR). ONR’s mission is to protect society by securing safe nuclear operations. I specialise in hazards such as extreme weather, earthquakes, flooding and aircraft crash. A hazard is something that has the potential to cause harm. My role is to ensure that hazards have been understood and properly controlled by operators. I consider how the risks from these hazards are reduced to meet the requirements of the law, to protect workers and the public. A risk is the likelihood of the harm arising. "

"After leaving school, I studied Geology at the University of Leicester. In my final year, I looked for jobs in industry that had some relevance to Geology. I considered roles in the energy industry and environmental science. After graduating from university, I joined the nucleargraduates scheme, sponsored by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR). During the two-year graduate scheme, I completed three eight-month placements in three different organisations across the nuclear industry and UK government. I also undertook a structured training programme, completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Nuclear Technology and became a STEM Ambassador. Upon completion of the nucleargraduates scheme, I was offered a job at the Office for Nuclear Regulation where I am now an External Hazards Specialist Inspector. "

"In my spare time, I love baking and cooking. I have recently taken up breadmaking which I really enjoy. I also enjoy exercising, especially lifting weights. Recently I have been doing more yoga and pilates to help relax and strengthen my muscles. I did kickboxing for about a year, which was challenging as it required a lot of coordination and I had to think on my feet! "

"As an Inspector, my day to day role involves interacting with organisations that are regulated by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) e.g. electricity generation stations and decommissioning sites. I ensure that these organisations are carrying out their activities safely and that they are meeting the standards expected by the law. My role consists of office-based work, face-to-face and online meetings and site inspections. Operators produce safety documentation to demonstrate that sites and facilities are safe. Part of my job is to sample and assess this documentation to ensure that hazards have been understood and controlled before permission is granted for key activities e.g. start of construction of a new power station. My favourite part of the job is carrying out site inspections because I enjoy interacting with other people and making sure that activities are being carried out safely. "

"I really enjoyed Science, Maths and Geography at GCSE. I have A levels in Maths, Chemistry, Biology and Geography. I also have an AS level in ICT. I studied Geology at the University of Leicester. I graduated in 2015 with 1st Class Honours in MGeol Geology (Integrated Masters). I am a Fellow of the Geological Society of London and an Associate Member of the Nuclear Institute. I am currently working towards Chartership with the Nuclear Institute as a Chartered Scientist (CSci). "