Rebekka Bishop

Rebekka works for a company called Allen Vanguard who design, develop and manufacture sophisticated products to counter-act the threat of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE) devices. Products include robots and bomb suits.

I joined the company in December 2006 as a Design Engineer then later became a Project Manager, after working for a Pharmaceutical company as a Project Manager. In parallel for working for the Pharmaceutical Company, I worked for a company developing my invention, the Smart Plant Pot.

In September last year I was asked to make improvements to the UK’s order management process. This has exposed me to all the interesting and lifesaving products we supply.

My typical day includes progress chasing orders, interacting with production and customers, resolving issues, expanding my technical knowledge, communicating changes to key stakeholders and ensuring orders are despatch on time.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Learning about new technologies.

What subjects did you study at school?

A-levels - Design Technology, Geography and Physics
Studied Industrial Design and Technology at Brunel University Department of Design

Do you have any specific role models/mentors that influenced you into what you are doing now?

My Father encouraged me at an early age to design and build models in his workshop.

My Technology Teacher, Mr Ireland encouraged me throughout my time at secondary school to develop my engineering/ design skills.

What difficulties have you encountered along the way that you had to overcome?

Dealing with overseas suppliers
Developing my own product whilst working full time
Working with issues outside of my control

How do you see your work affecting other people’s lives?

As well as working for a company who supply lifesaving equipment to the Military and VIP’s, I also share my story as an inventor to encourage individuals into Science and Technology. Reference www.rebekkabishop.com

What piece of advice would you give to young girls interested in a similar profession?

• If you believe you can succeed, you will
• There is always another way at looking at a problem
• Learn to trust your instincts
• Learn to develop your skill sets. (Employers look for transferable skills today, making you more employable).

What do you have by way of hobbies and other interests?

I swim once a week and have an allotment which keeps me busy majority of the year. I continue to promote my ideas and careers in Science and Technology.

References:

www.rebekkabishop.com
www.allenvanguard.com