Leila Tavendale

Being awarded an Arkwright Engineering Scholarship helped immensely with costs associated with my A-level studies. Part of the money went towards a Physics trip to CERN, arguably a once in a lifetime experience.

"Leila is an enthusiastic and able Engineer who engaged at all levels of academic study and social activity whilst at Lancaster University. Her contribution on summer placement and during her MEng project were exceptional, demonstrating all the traits we would expect of an Arkwright Scholar."

Stephen Quayle, Part 1 Director of Studies and Lecturer, Engineering Department, Lancaster University

During university, and since leaving, I’ve continued to work with Arkwright – I have assisted during interview days for new Scholarship applicants at Lancaster University (giving presentations and leading tours) and at Newcastle University. It’s a strange, but satisfying, feeling to sit on the other side of that same table that I encountered 8 years ago. I also mentor two Arkwright Scholars in the Newcastle area and spend time giving guidance on university choices, personal statements and career paths. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to give back to Arkwright.

I am now a Mechanical Engineer at Parsons Brinckerhoff, one of the world’s leading planning, engineering, and program & construction management organisations. I work within the Renewable Energy team on shallow geothermal, wind, tidal stream and solar PV projects in the UK and overseas. I complete feasibility studies, due diligence exercises and energy modelling for developments ranging from a few kilowatts to multi megawatts.

In the future I hope to transfer to our New Zealand office to get some experience in deep geothermal projects, and to spend some more time on site to see projects through from beginning to completion.

Arkwright has introduced me to a huge network of people through my initial Scholarship and my continued work with the Trust. It has opened doors and provided further opportunities for me to interact with academics, industry leaders and pupils alike. Arkwright undoubtedly enhanced my A level studies and with Rolls Royce as my Sponsor, I built an incredibly influential period of experience on my CV. My continued interest in Engineering and the other STEM subjects is continually strengthened by my interaction with Arkwright.

I would recommend that any pupil with a passion for Engineering should apply for a Scholarship and that any company that has a need for high quality Professional Engineers should seriously consider supporting Arkwright Engineering Scholars.