“A Different Start, A Strong Finish: My Journey into Engineering and Outreach” Jenny Brayshaw – Engineer and Vermeer Technician

From Late Start to Lasting Impact

My career started later than most, as I prioritised raising my young family. I initially attended college to study Basic Engineering, with the intention of pursuing a career in renewable energy. By my third year, I was working towards a Level 6 qualification in Engineering Systems when an unexpected opportunity arose.

Through a mutual contact, I was approached by someone running a fibre company who offered me a role managing and maintaining their plant machinery. This included trailers, diggers, and coordinating servicing for vehicles and specialist equipment. I was able to apply my welding and fabrication skills from college to conduct many repairs myself. When tasks fell outside my skillset, I took the initiative to learn—building relationships with a local fabrication workshop that allowed me to observe and understand more complex repairs. I made a point of absorbing as much knowledge as possible from these experiences.

The company operated several Vermeer machines, which I was also responsible for maintaining. With the nearest Vermeer technician located 8–9 hours away, I often conducted repairs remotely under their guidance. This developed not only my technical ability but also my confidence in problem-solving and working independently. After two years, I was offered a position with Vermeer as their Scotland-based technician, which I was proud to accept.

Vermeer has played a significant role in supporting my ongoing development. They have provided both practical opportunities and encouragement, enabling me to build confidence and gain valuable experience beyond my core role. This has included supporting my involvement in outreach work, giving me the platform to engage with schools and the wider community. Their backing has allowed me to step outside my day-to-day responsibilities and contribute in a more meaningful way.

Before joining Vermeer, I volunteered as a Cub Scout Leader with my local Scout group. I found it incredibly rewarding to support young people as they developed skills and confidence, and to see how those skills translated into other areas of their lives. Often, the real lesson was not just learning how to pitch a tent but developing the resilience and determination to keep trying after setting it up wrong a hundred times. I had to step away from this role when I joined the fibre company due to time constraints, but the experience stayed with me.

The leadership team at Vermeer shares a similar mindset. As parents themselves, they understand the importance of engaging with young people and inspiring the next generation. They encouraged me to develop an outreach approach that could work alongside my role, which led to my involvement with Diane and the team at Curiosity Box.

For me, this outreach work has been invaluable. It has strengthened my communication skills and allowed me to represent the organisation in a positive and professional way. More importantly, it has provided an opportunity to broaden young people’s horizons and highlight alternative career paths they may not have previously considered.

STEM Boxes for Schools