In 2022, IPAF President Karin Nars launched the 'Women in Powered Access' initiative, inviting women of all ages and different professional roles to share their stories of inclusivity. The initiative includes a number of key actions, including providing a platform to tell the stories of women in powered access in both the media and at industry events. IPAF will also use its own print, web and social media platforms to share these inspirational case studies, and will also continue to invite prominent women speakers to present at IPAF events. IPAF will share a series of case studies at  www.ipaf.org/casestudy to communicate the opportunities our industry offers women. 

Megan Campbell 
Apprentice Engineer, Summit Platforms, UK

How did you come into this industry and what attracted you to it? Since leaving school I knew I wanted to be in a practical role in engineering. I started a mechatronics apprenticeship as a school-leaver, but found I enjoyed the mechanical side more and wanted to pursue it further. I then found an apprenticeship in powered access with Summit Platforms, through which I attend NWSL college. What initially attracted me to the industry was the opportunities and progression that can be achieved, as well as the importance of the role in the workshop to keep the customer’s machine safe to use.  

What do you find inspiring about your role? Every day I come to work I am one step closer to qualifying as a service engineer with Summit Platforms. The harder I work the more opportunities I can create within the industry.  

Where do you see yourself in five years and what do you want to achieve?I would like to have finished my apprenticeship and gained valuable on-site experience and hopefully see more like-minded women in this industry. You never know …over the next five years I could become the first female senior engineer in the industry in the UK! I aspire to continue to be an ambassador for women wanting to work in the powered access industry. 

What one piece of advice would you give to other women in/thinking of entering the industry? Follow what you desire and don’t let anything stand in your way. The training I have received so far has been fantastic. Being the only woman on the course, I have held my own and enjoyed it thoroughly. In a nutshell, do what you feel is right! Getting your hands dirty by putting overalls on each day to learn a trade that will be around for many years… it’s the route to take and I’m proof it can be done.