Jo Alexander

My career in Engineering started at Jaguar Land Rover 18 years ago, after graduating from Brunel University in Industrial Design. I always knew I wanted to be an engineer from childhood. I was always interested in the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of objects, and loved designing games out of odd bits and pieces. My dad was a motor mechanic, which might have inspired my interest. He was worried about me entering engineering, though. He felt I wouldn’t be valued in a male-dominated environment. I understood his views, but still felt it was the right path for me.

As soon as I arrived at Jaguar Land Rover, I knew I’d made the right choice. I started as an Analyst Engineer in Body CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) developing vehicle body structures in the Virtual world. Now I’m a Project Leader, managing a team of 15 to 20 engineers to design and develop the new Jaguar Sports car’s structural and sub-systems.

My proudest achievement to date has been delivering a 5 Star for EuroNCAP on the new Range Rover Evoque, making it only the second Land Rover product ever to acquire this grand status. I’ve always felt valued here, because my field enables huge cost savings to the business by expanding development capabilities and reducing tools and materials.

I have a huge passion to compete and deliver high performance. My interests outside of work largely revolve around sport. I have been a Contender Reserve for the T.V Show Gladiators, tried out for the TV show SAS Are You Tough Enough, placed in the top 3 Masters Butterfly in County Championships and completed the grueling Ironman Triathlon.

I’ve got the engineering career I dreamed of – and much more. That’s down to a combination of my own drive and the ever increasing range of opportunities at Jaguar Land Rover. The business is a great advocate for women in engineering. As an example, I took part in their Women in Leadership programme, which was a valuable opportunity to learn key techniques and tools to aid career progression.

These days, I can give something back, by mentoring undergraduates, supporting new graduates and supporting women into engineering projects. I share my experiences and offer advice on everything from networking to interview preparation and career development.