An Airbus engineer is encouraging more women to pursue careers in engineering.
Amber Wilkes, 25, from Abergele, works as an industrialisation engineer in the manufacturing team.
She has completed Airbus’ two-year graduate training programme and is now working towards her master’s degree in engineering (mechanical manufacturing) at Wrexham University.
Ms Wilkes said: "I've always had an interest in engineering.
"I've always been interested in trying to push the boundaries of what's possible, to explore and learn as much as I can, understand how things work, and turn ideas into reality.
"For me, engineering is the perfect bridge between conceptual problem-solving and physical creation."
She joined Airbus in September 2023 and has since worked in different parts of the business, including a three-month placement in the United States at a final assembly line.
She said: "Then in July last year, I came into my final role as an industrialisation engineer.
"I work within manufacturing engineering for both the single aisle A320 and wide body A350 commercial aircraft, where we industrialise major modifications into the industrial system, see if they're feasible, and then work out how to implement them."
Ms Wilkes is studying part-time for a master’s degree to support her goal of becoming a Chartered Engineer.
She said: "I chose Wrexham University as its proximity to Broughton’s Airbus facility made it the ideal place to support my role within aerospace manufacturing, and it also has brand new facilities.
"I attend uni once a week, and the strong technical foundation and practical skills I’m learning have really boosted my confidence."
Ms Wilkes is also passionate about promoting diversity within the engineering sector.
She said: "I believe it’s important that engineering is seen as a career choice for a wide range of people from different backgrounds, and that there is a diverse representation of people in the sector.
"I want to help inspire the next generation of female engineering talent because it’s such an interesting and rewarding field."
Wrexham University offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate engineering courses, including degree apprenticeships.
Clearing places for courses starting in autumn 2026 are currently available.
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