Women in Engineering 2025: Millie Hardman

Hi Millie, thanks to taking the time to talk to us about your career with Actemium so far. Tell us a bit about your current engineering role and what you love most about it.

I’m a first-year Apprentice Electrical Engineer at Switchgear Services in Honiton, part of Actemium UK – and thoroughly enjoying my role so far. Most of my day is spent building and wiring up Distribution Boards and Switch Boards. It might sound super technical (which it is!), but it’s also really satisfying. There’s something really rewarding about wiring up a board neatly and then stepping back to say, “I did that.”

What I really enjoy is that there’s always room to put your own touch into your work—like a little bit of personality in the way you wire. I’ve also been learning loads about different components and how they work within the boards, which keeps it interesting every day.

That is fantastic to hear. You have probably heard that this year’s Women In Engineering theme is “Together We Engineer”. How do you see this happen in your day-to-day work?

Even though I’m the only female on the workshop floor in my business, I’ve felt welcomed from the very first day. Everyone here has always made me feel like a valued member of the team, which has helped me build confidence in what I do.

One of the things I love most about my job is the people I work with. They’re so inclusive and always manage to make me laugh.

Our team has such a close-knit, family-like vibe. We all work well together, and there’s a real sense of support and teamwork across the board.

With a year’s hands on experience in engineering, what advice would you give to other women – or girls – thinking about a career in this field?

Go for it — seriously! Don’t let anyone or anything hold you back. It might seem a bit intimidating at first, especially if you’re going into a male-dominated space, but you will be surprised!

You’ll meet some of your best friends, learn so much about yourself, and come out more confident than you ever thought you’d be.

For a young person and an engineer mentorship and support are very important. Tell us what or who has helped you grow your career at Actemium?

Two people in the business have really stood out for me. First, Richard Albones, our Business Unit General Manager — he’s been such a positive influence throughout and always encourages me to go after what I want to achieve. He’s also easy to talk to and just really supportive all-round.

And then there’s Chris Ward, my mentor. He’s basically taught me everything I know so far! His knowledge and experience have been such a huge part of my learning journey. He has really helped boost my confidence and allowed me to grow in my role.

That supportive environment seems really strong in your team. Can you tell us how you all help each other, both professionally and personally?

We’ve got a great atmosphere in the workshop. Everyone is always ready to help each other and provide support in the best way that they can.

But it is not only about tools and equipment – we look out for each other on a personal level too. We all know each other very well and understand that sometimes you just need a one-to-one chat with a cup of tea. And that’s all right, because there will always be someone around to listen if you are having a tough day.

And could you please share with us a moment you felt proud to be part of the team?

A moment that really stands out for me was when we all came together to build a board that was being sent out to Gambia. Knowing that something we built here in Honiton was going to help people halfway across the world was honestly such a proud moment! It just reminded me how important our work can be.

To end on, what would you say to the next generation of female apprentices?

Be confident and go for it! Honestly, if it’s something you’re passionate about, don’t let anything stop you.

Interested in pursuing a career in engineering like Millie? Have a look at our Career Portal and apply for any suitable opportunities today.