An Aerospace Engineering student from Solihull College & University Centre is reaching for the skies as she pursues a passion for aeroplanes dating back to her childhood.
Nimrah Kaiynat, 16 from Birmingham, has made a great start on the course at Woodlands Campus. She comments: “I’ve always liked aeroplanes since I was little and I’m good at maths. I gathered the best way to combine my love for aeroplanes with my skills in maths is through studying Aerospace Engineering, a practical and hands-on course at the College, rather than A-Levels.”
Nimrah recognises that women are underrepresented in this field and aims to inspire other girls to pursue their interests without fear.
Her interest in aeroplanes was fuelled by watching plane crash investigations as a child. The intricacies of how these flying machines work and take flight fascinated her, leading her to explore the reasons behind aviation incidents. Nimrah’s journey into aerospace engineering is not just a career choice; it’s a curiosity-driven exploration into the mechanics and mysteries of flight.
In a class where she is one of only two girls, Nimrah finds empowerment in standing out. “I don’t feel out of place, the other students respect me and listen to me. I like standing out; it feels nice.” Nimrah is looking forward to her upcoming work experience, eager to delve deeper into the world of aerospace engineering and further develop her skills.
“Is engineering for girls? Yes! As long as you know you have the ability, don’t let anything get in the way and don’t get distracted” Nimrah confidently asserts. She emphasises the importance of self-belief and determination for any girl considering a career in engineering.
Nimrah is grateful for the strong support she receives at the College: “My lecturers inspire me to aim high and constantly provide guidance and encouragement. In the first term, the focus was on maths related to engineering, and now we’re looking at the electrical side of engineering and computing.”
Alongside her academic pursuits, Nimrah actively participates in student representation and fundraising for various charities.
The College is proud to lead the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology – a collaborative approach between further education colleges, universities and employers specialising in delivering higher technical education with a focus on STEM. The IoT provides employers with a skilled workforce and students with a clear route to technical employment.
