International Women's Day 2024

To mark International Women’s Day 2024, two influential women from Ficep UK share insights into their roles to help inspire others to pursue careers in the steel industry.

First, we hear from Pam Allen who is our Finance and Administration Director. Pam joined Ficep UK in 2010 initially working on accounting projects and is now one of three Directors of the UK business.

What attracted you to your role?

The complex nature of the business, dealing with large capital sales as well as higher volume, lower value spares and tooling sales. The best part is being able to see all strands of the business coming together.

What does your role involve?

All things financial; invoices, wages etc, plus administration for the company. Support for all areas of the business including recruitment and future planning and strategy along with my fellow directors.

Why did you choose to work in this industry?

I like that it is quite a small, close-knit industry and we get the opportunity to work closely with repeat customers and support them as their business develops.

What is the best thing about your role?

I get to be involved in lots of different aspects of the business and no two days are the same.

What advice would you give to other women who are considering a career in the industry?

Try not to be put off by any of the stereotypical images of people working in the steel industry. There are many women working in this field and it’s not as old fashioned as you might think.

Next to share her insights is Chelsea Stanley who is our Software Support Engineer. Chelsea joined Ficep UK in 2023 and is responsible for supporting customers to optimise their Ficep CNC systems.

What attracted you to your role and what does is involve?

I began my career in Software Support eight years ago and found immediately this is where I thrive. I enjoy the investigation aspect, and making our clients day to day lives easier is always a good feeling.

Why did you choose to work in this industry?

The industry is different to my previous role as when I am supporting users there is an end product to see, that eventually leads into something much bigger. Previously it was all around back-office work and the impact I make at Ficep UK feels much bigger.

What is the best thing about your role?

The best thing about my role is that every day is different. Speaking to different people, investigating different solutions and occasionally traveling to meet the people I support face to face. Very rarely a day goes by where I haven’t learnt something new!

What advice would you give to other women who are considering a career in the industry?

Do it! Don’t let anyone or anything stop you from following your passions.