My first degree was in electronics. I later followed this with an MSc in Control Systems and finally a PhD in Chemical Engineering. My industrial experience is also varied. I began as a Technician with British Telecom, then a Research Assistant at Nottingham University. I later became a Senior Design Engineer and finally Head of Engineering with a materials handling company.
The idea of teaching had been at the back of my mind for some time, but having been in full time employment for 13 years, a complete change in career had never seemed a practical option. Teaching appealed, as it would give me the opportunity to pass on some of the knowledge I had gained since leaving school. As I had always worked in the engineering sector, the opportunity to teach engineering seemed the most obvious choice. I also believe that engineering engages young people as it has a clear relevance to their daily lives. It gives young people the opportunity to learn and apply their knowledge to real life problems and to real life situations.