Change and Adapt: My STEM Journey for British Science Week

British Science Week is all about celebrating science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM), and this year’s theme , Change and Adapt, resonates deeply with me. My career in construction has been a journey of constant change, learning, and growth. Looking back over the past decade, I can see just how much I’ve adapted, both professionally and personally, since making the leap into STEM.

Changing Careers

One of the biggest changes I ever made was switching careers. I didn’t start out in STEM; I worked in hospitality and retail before transitioning to construction 10 years ago. At the time, it felt like a huge leap into the unknown, but it was the best decision I ever made. I’ve gone from serving customers to shaping the built environment, and while the industries might seem worlds apart, both require problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience. That shift set me on a path of continual learning and adapting; something that’s become second nature to me.

Adapting My Confidence

Confidence isn’t something that just arrives fully formed ; it’s built through experiences, experiments, and a willingness to be curious. Over the years, I’ve learned to back myself more. I used to hold back, worrying about whether I belonged in construction, but by embracing new challenges, I’ve grown into my voice and my abilities. I’ve tested ideas, pushed myself beyond my comfort zone, and found that every step forward strengthens my confidence.

A Wardrobe Transformation

It might seem like a small thing, but even my wardrobe has evolved as I’ve adapted. In my early career, I stuck to a simple uniform of black trousers and a plain top; safe, practical, and unnoticed. But as I grew more confident, I embraced colour. Now, I’m known for my bright, bold dresses, colourful tights, and quirky prints. It’s not just about clothes; it’s about expressing who I am and feeling comfortable in my own skin.

From Fixed Mindset to Growth Mindset

One of the most important shifts I’ve made is in my mindset. I used to think of abilities as fixed; either I could do something, or I couldn’t. This was especially true of my maths ability and the anxiety that caused. But STEM teaches you that everything is a process of learning and improvement. Now, when I encounter something new, I don’t just say, “I can’t do it.” I ask, “How can I learn to do it?” This shift has opened up so many opportunities for me, and it’s a mindset I encourage others to embrace as well.

Constantly Evolving

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in STEM, it’s that change is constant. My attitudes have changed as I’ve learned more, whether it’s about industry practices, leadership, or even the way I engage with the world. Every experience, every challenge, every lesson has shaped me into who I am today. I’m always adapting, evolving, and growing; because that’s what STEM (and life) is all about.

So, as we celebrate British Science Week, I’m reflecting on just how much Change and Adapt has been a theme in my own journey. STEM isn’t just about the science of change; it’s about the people who embrace it, and I’m proud to be one of them.