For decades, the image of the automotive and transport engineering sector has remained unchanged. Mentally, many still picture high-vis jackets, grease-stained workshops and a heavily male-dominated environment. Historically, this perception hasn’t been entirely wrong. Statistics from EngineeringUK show that women make up just 17% of the engineering and technology workforce across the UK – a stark contrast to the 56% female representation seen in other sectors.
However, the tide is turning. Major transport operators are realising that to solve modern infrastructure challenges, they need diversity of thought, background and talent. At the forefront of this cultural shift is Stagecoach, the UK’s largest bus and coach operator.
Programmes like Stagecoach’s ‘Trade Up’ scheme, which allows existing staff to re-train from alternative roles into highly skilled engineering disciplines, are creating a new generation of technical experts. This Women in Engineering day, we’re highlighting the journeys of women who ignored the stereotypes and are now helping to drive the business and engineering sector forward.
Case study 1: Charley Owen-Barnett
Engineering Apprentice, Chester Engineers.
For many young women looking to break into the engineering sector, the main hurdle is a lack of opportunity. Charley Owen-Barnett joined Stagecoach in September 2023 as a Mechelec Apprentice, before finding her true calling and transitioning to a Body Apprentice in November 2024.
“I’ve always found it fascinating how machines work and how different elements react together,” explains Charley. “I love being hands-on, so when the opportunity for an Engineering Apprentice came up, I immediately applied.”
Despite her innate passion, Charley’s early experiences applying for roles outside of Stagecoach mirrored the exact barriers that keep the national female engineering statistic so low. “I used to think I’ll never get an engineering role because I’m a female,” she admits. “Before Stagecoach, I applied to so many roles in engineering but always got turned down, and I began thinking, ‘Is it because I’m a female?’ I found it hard, until Stagecoach gave me the opportunity.”
Since stepping into the Chester depot, Charley’s day-to-day role has evolved into a highly technical, practical craft. “My experience to date has been great. I’ve learnt a lot of new skills and knowledge. My role includes repairing body damage and using different body fillers to do so. I also fabricate new panels, so I can replace badly damaged ones. I’ve also began to practise welding, as I will need this further along in my career.”
Like many entering a traditionally male-dominated environment, confidence can initially be a barrier. However, the culture at the depot has provided the ideal environment for Charley to thrive. “I’ve struggled with my confidence for a long time, but Stagecoach has been great in helping me gain the confidence I need. If it wasn’t for the opportunity they offered to me, I probably wouldn’t be in engineering today.”
Her message to other women standing at the same crossroads is uncompromising: “Just do it. Don’t let anything or anybody put you off. It’s the best thing I have done. It’s important you follow what you want and not get disheartened if the opportunity is turned away – there’s always a better one around the corner.”
Case study 2: Ellie Hunt
Engineering Apprentice, Stagecoach East Midlands.
Career progression in Stagecoach doesn’t always follow a straight line. Often, it rewards those who look for a new challenge. Ellie Hunt initially joined Stagecoach in February 2022, seeking an escape from a completely different sector.
“I applied for a trainee bus driver role as I was looking for a new challenge,” Ellie recalls. “I enjoy driving as a whole, so thought, why not give bus driving a try? Stagecoach put me through all my training and it, at the time, was what I thought was the best decision ever.”
Ellie excelled on the roads. After driving for a couple of years, she completed her Mentor training course and began guiding new drivers coming into the Mansfield depot. Yet, her ambitions lay even further under the hood. When the company advertised its internal Trade Up scheme – an initiative specifically designed to help current employees transition into engineering – Ellie jumped at the chance.
“I decided to apply for the Trade Up scheme to get into engineering, as it’s always been something I was interested in, but never found the right opportunity,” she says. “This was the best decision I ever made. I needed a new challenge, that’s exactly what I got. Each day is a learning curve, and I enjoy it so much.”
Transitioning into the workshop can feel daunting, but Ellie found a team ready to back her up. “The best part since joining engineering is how welcoming the whole team has been, and how they support me to reach my goals.”
Reflecting on her journey, Ellie champions the internal tools Stagecoach provides. “The thing I would say to any other person or woman wanting to go into engineering or bus driving, is just do it. It could be the best decision you ever made, and Stagecoach provides you with the tools to do it.”
Case study 3: Megan Findlay
Level 3 Bus and Coach Engineering Technician in Manchester.
While apprenticeships offer a fantastic foot in the door, long-term retention and continuous learning are what create true industry specialists. Megan Findlay is a testament to the sustainable, long-term career prospects Stagecoach provides, having recently passed her ten-year milestone with the business.
“I first joined Stagecoach in 2014, and have enjoyed developing my skills and gaining valuable experience ever since,” says Megan. Like Ellie, Megan’s journey began on the frontline. “When I joined Stagecoach, I completed the driver training programme, gaining both my PCV licence and CPC qualification.”
Megan’s driving years were packed with variety: “During my time as a driver, I was privileged to be included in driving the bus for an event for Everton F.C., which included a meet-and-greet session with two of the team players. I also worked in Manchester covering Metrolink tram replacement services, regularly operated the soccer bus transporting fans to and from Anfield and Goodison Park, and spent some of my driving years at Preston operating services across Lancashire.”
Seeking a practical way to keep learning, Megan also utilised the Trade Up scheme. She committed to a rigorous four-year apprenticeship, ultimately qualifying as a Level 3 Bus and Coach Engineering Technician.
“Since qualifying, I’ve been carrying out maintenance, repairs and MOT prep to help keep our buses safe and reliable,” explains Megan. “Every day brings something different, and I’ve enjoyed learning from experienced colleagues while building my own skills, confidence and taking on new challenges. I wanted a career where I could keep learning and do something practical that made a difference. Stagecoach stood out because of its strong training opportunities.
“I would encourage any women considering a career as a bus driver or engineer to go for it. It’s a career where your skills, commitment and willingness to learn matter far more than stereotypes. If you’re interested in engineering or driving and enjoy solving problems or working with people, don’t let assumptions hold you back.”
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