WEBVTT
00:00:06.243 --> 00:00:08.583
Welcome to Future Horizons, The Tempest Podcast.
00:00:09.243 --> 00:00:10.583
I'm your host, Zevi Watmough.
00:00:15.892 --> 00:00:21.832
An essential pillar of the Team Tempest programme is engaging the next generation of engineers and aviators.
00:00:22.452 --> 00:00:35.292
TECN, the Tempest Early Careers Network, is focused on capturing the imagination and potential of individuals working on the programme at the start of their careers, as well as inspiring those who are embarking on their secondary education.
00:00:36.112 --> 00:00:44.072
This generation, Generation Tempest, will become the future leaders of the programme as the systems come into service in 2035.
00:00:44.992 --> 00:00:55.892
In this episode, we speak to TECN members so we can learn about their roles and experiences, as well as their vision for the transformative collaboration that will power Tempest far into the future.
00:00:56.692 --> 00:01:17.632
Joining us now are Georgina Coles, Ministry of Defence, DSTL Platform Systems Engineer, Georgiana Pill, Leonardo, Graduate Project Manager, Adarsh Bhardwaj, Rolls-Royce Thermo Fluids Engineer, Jashen Litesh, MBDA Mechanical Engineer, and Hannah Ritchie, BAE Systems Project Controller.
00:01:18.472 --> 00:01:23.132
Georgina Coles, Ministry of Defence, DSTL Platform Systems Engineer, coming to you first.
00:01:23.632 --> 00:01:31.352
You've had a fascinating journey from studying spacecraft systems engineering right up to your role today in TECN.
00:01:31.532 --> 00:01:38.352
Can you just describe the defining moments on your journey that led to you navigating your career towards the combat air sector?
00:01:39.312 --> 00:01:39.772
Hi, Zevi.
00:01:39.792 --> 00:01:41.712
Yeah, that's a great question.
00:01:42.072 --> 00:01:43.112
Gosh, defining moments.
00:01:43.192 --> 00:01:50.412
So yeah, definitely when I did spacecraft systems engineering at Southampton University, great course, really, really enjoyed it there.
00:01:50.772 --> 00:01:57.732
I think one of the parts that really stayed with me was one of my professors was really passionate about something called space debris.
00:01:57.992 --> 00:02:02.692
So for anybody who isn't aware of what space debris is, it's anything that comes off a spacecraft.
00:02:02.912 --> 00:02:06.592
It can be small like paint flecks all the way up to parts of a spacecraft.
00:02:07.392 --> 00:02:25.732
And it wasn't really considered much of an issue initially, but over the time and all the spacecraft that have launched, it's a real problem now because these parts are flying around, orbiting our planet and they become a real problem to spacecraft that are operating up there or manned as well.
00:02:25.972 --> 00:02:35.652
And that kind of ethos of thinking about the way in which we impact our environment and waste as well has really stayed with me, particularly into the FCAS programmeme.
00:02:36.512 --> 00:02:41.812
So I joined FCAS back in 2019 and from there I got involved in TECN.
00:02:42.272 --> 00:02:54.392
And my role as a TECN coordinator started off with being asked about a project, which was how can the FCAS programmeme help achieve net zero by 2050?
00:02:54.932 --> 00:03:02.212
This wasn't really something that I had originally thought about, that connection between the environment and sustainability and defence.
00:03:02.832 --> 00:03:05.312
And actually it's a really important connection.
00:03:05.612 --> 00:03:14.652
You know, normally it's sort of cost and capability, but sustainability is really, really key because we're operating in a very much climate changed environment.
00:03:14.892 --> 00:03:17.332
We have to adapt in order to be able to operate.
00:03:17.792 --> 00:03:31.312
And so that I've brought that with me and that kind of ethos all the way through from that space debris of actually, you know, where how we operate impacts everybody in this environment and we need to consider that going forwards.
00:03:32.412 --> 00:03:45.952
So I started the TECN Sustainability Team and at the moment, we're getting some really exciting projects off the ground, one related to materials and the kind of materials we use on the programme and one related to circular economy.
00:03:46.212 --> 00:03:53.752
So for anybody who isn't aware, circular economy is rethinking the way in which we use a product or materials.
00:03:53.772 --> 00:03:59.272
So less of the sort of design, build, use and dispose and more of can we repair it?
00:03:59.292 --> 00:04:00.152
Can we maintain it?
00:04:00.172 --> 00:04:01.072
Can we recycle it?
00:04:01.312 --> 00:04:02.932
And giving it an extended life?
00:04:03.412 --> 00:04:09.892
Obviously, the FCAS programme is way more complicated than something like a washing machine, but we can still apply those principles again.
00:04:10.292 --> 00:04:14.572
And I have members who I know are really excited about this and applying that.
00:04:14.932 --> 00:04:17.452
And I'm really looking forward to working with them going forwards.
00:04:18.772 --> 00:04:22.292
Georgiana Pill, Leonardo Graduate Project Manager.
00:04:22.732 --> 00:04:31.112
Georgina Coles has sort of walked us through this thread of sustainability that she's been aware of from studying right up to the present day.
00:04:31.132 --> 00:04:41.992
And it's kind of been a thread for you too, because you were seven years old at RIAT when you first encountered sensors and started thinking about aerospace.
00:04:42.312 --> 00:04:45.452
But before you came to TECN, you were in quite a different industry.
00:04:46.052 --> 00:04:50.792
And that might inspire people to know how you learned about TECN and then you then joined.
00:04:50.812 --> 00:04:52.012
Can you describe that journey?
00:04:52.932 --> 00:04:53.732
Yeah, exactly.
00:04:53.752 --> 00:04:59.272
So before Leonardo, like you said, I was working in the food industry, so quite different.
00:05:00.032 --> 00:05:04.612
And then I first heard about TECN during my first week at Leonardo.
00:05:04.832 --> 00:05:12.152
So both my manager and my new colleagues all encouraged me to join this network as it's full of opportunities.
00:05:12.692 --> 00:05:21.512
And it was the opportunity to see the wider aspects of the business that TECN provides that particularly excited me and made me want to join the network.
00:05:22.612 --> 00:05:29.992
And then I also decided to volunteer as a TECN coordinator to meet a wider range of colleagues whilst helping to organise events as well.
00:05:30.732 --> 00:05:43.192
And yeah, like you said, I've been attending events in the industry since I was seven years old, thanks to my dad, who always has and continues to be keen to share his interest in radio communication aircraft technology.
00:05:44.972 --> 00:05:48.252
And yeah, I've been to RIAT every year since 2004.
00:05:48.932 --> 00:05:54.872
And it was here that I was inspired by the aircraft and their sensing and communication systems, and also the people behind them.
00:05:55.392 --> 00:06:12.752
And then now, as part of TECN, I have the opportunity to be on the other side of these types of events as well, and be able to be one of the people who are encouraging other young people to get involved with the programmeme, you know, whatever your background, if you've got the interest, I think there's a role for you here.
00:06:13.532 --> 00:06:16.092
And this is something that I find particularly rewarding.
00:06:17.172 --> 00:06:19.972
Adarsh Bhardwaj, Rolls-Royce Thermofluids Engineer.
00:06:21.472 --> 00:06:25.932
It seems to be that the aerospace industry is shifting and changing every single day.
00:06:26.312 --> 00:06:32.532
Why do you think TECN is so central to the transformative nature of the Tempest programmeme?
00:06:33.172 --> 00:06:36.792
Yeah, I think TECN is a crucial aspect of the programme going forward.
00:06:37.252 --> 00:06:43.692
As the programmeme evolves and becomes more fluid, it's more crucial than ever to stay well-knitted and act as one big team.
00:06:44.312 --> 00:06:48.332
And the way we can enable that is through cross-company collaboration.
00:06:48.612 --> 00:06:51.212
And the better it is, the better our collaboration is.
00:06:51.852 --> 00:07:03.292
One way we're enabling that is through the cross-partner mentoring scheme, where early career individuals like us are partnered with one of the mentors, senior engineers, from one of the partnering companies.
00:07:03.652 --> 00:07:07.292
And what that does is allows a cross-partner enablement.
00:07:07.672 --> 00:07:12.452
It allows us to communicate, to learn from experience of an engineer from a different company.
00:07:13.052 --> 00:07:19.692
And by tying us up together, not only are we developing the next generation of engineers, but also becoming more well-rounded.
00:07:20.752 --> 00:07:26.192
We also do other things such as site visits, the dinners, the summer event.
00:07:26.272 --> 00:07:34.572
All of these things are crucial to keep that communication going, to keep us knitted together and remind us that we're all just one big team.
00:07:34.652 --> 00:07:40.132
Even though we're working in individual companies, we are all working towards the same end goal.
00:07:40.972 --> 00:07:42.612
And TECN is enabling that.
00:07:43.192 --> 00:07:48.792
And you know, when you were growing up, how much awareness did you have of opportunity?
00:07:49.872 --> 00:07:56.592
And do you feel that that sense of things being accessible and available to people is very important?
00:07:57.152 --> 00:07:58.112
Absolutely, yeah.
00:07:58.132 --> 00:08:01.912
Widening access is actually one of the things that we're trying to enable.
00:08:02.252 --> 00:08:06.412
Like, for example, myself, I didn't have that avenue into STEM.
00:08:06.432 --> 00:08:12.512
I didn't have that knowledge on what kind of subjects I need to pick, how I need to go into industry.
00:08:12.512 --> 00:08:15.232
And TECN is actually inspiring the future engineers.
00:08:15.252 --> 00:08:27.792
We're involved in a volunteering scheme that we're trying to roll out over the coming months, where we try and encourage the future generation of engineers to take up aerospace, to try and be involved within the defence sector.
00:08:28.232 --> 00:08:45.152
And one of that is to find, perhaps, people who wouldn't think or wouldn't be inspired to be engineers, trying to inspire them and encourage that by going into schools or by bringing them onto the site, like we did a couple of weeks ago, and doing workshops with them to really try and propel that forward.
00:08:46.372 --> 00:08:49.152
Jashen Litesh, MBDA Mechanical Engineer.
00:08:49.412 --> 00:08:56.732
It sounds as if when you're working in engineering, you have access to a lot of stimulation, a lot of interesting activities.
00:08:56.952 --> 00:09:02.572
Can you just explain how you've benefited both personally and professionally from being part of TECN?
00:09:04.472 --> 00:09:05.052
Absolutely.
00:09:05.072 --> 00:09:12.052
So, Zevi, so being part of TECN means that I have a large variety of events that I've had access to.
00:09:12.572 --> 00:09:29.252
For example, that could be from TECN team building activities, TECN projects, award evenings, and even in this TECN podcast, for example, it kind of gives me the opportunity to learn about the different roles that exist not just within MBDA, but across the wider enterprise as well.
00:09:29.892 --> 00:09:37.232
And also being part of the TECN community also means that I can present my work not just within MBDA, but within the key stakeholders as well.
00:09:38.492 --> 00:09:46.832
Something that I wanted to develop as part of my continuing professional development for chartership was how I communicate and present.
00:09:47.512 --> 00:09:58.892
And being on the TECN programme allowed me to present my work not just within MBDA, but also across the wide enterprise and with Leonardo, Rolls-Royce, et cetera.
00:09:59.532 --> 00:10:08.972
And I've got to understand how I actually present my work, how I present my work to our different stakeholders across the enterprise.
00:10:08.992 --> 00:10:11.552
And have you seen yourself change since you've become an engineer?
00:10:11.572 --> 00:10:16.352
Because I imagine that it sort of changes your brain about once you have that awareness.
00:10:17.732 --> 00:10:18.512
Oh, absolutely.
00:10:18.952 --> 00:10:30.152
So when I loosed off the graduate scheme, off the mechanical engineering grad scheme, one thing I got to learn about was how I actually deal with working in an ambiguous environment.
00:10:30.372 --> 00:10:40.492
So with this current role, I'm trying to work on mechanical transformation or activities within the TECN programme.
00:10:40.952 --> 00:10:44.772
And one thing that I've got to deal with is how I deal with ambiguity.
00:10:45.092 --> 00:10:49.392
And it's something that I initially struggled with when I first started with the project.
00:10:49.932 --> 00:10:55.772
But at MBDA, we have dealing with ambiguity and influencing training pathways.
00:10:56.272 --> 00:11:01.012
And it's something that I got to pick up whilst I did these training activities.
00:11:01.332 --> 00:11:03.412
And it's something that I got better at over time.
00:11:03.432 --> 00:11:11.272
I initially struggled with it, but after going through these training tool kits, I applied what I learnt to my day-to-day role.
00:11:11.412 --> 00:11:16.172
So I could actually deal with ambiguity and influence people in a more effective way.
00:11:16.832 --> 00:11:21.092
So then that kind of led to outcomes later on in the project as well.
00:11:21.772 --> 00:11:24.692
Hannah Richie, BAE Systems Project Controller.
00:11:24.712 --> 00:11:35.032
You're working right in the heart of the business and Jashen has just walked us through some of the skills he's acquired, like being able to deal with ambiguity and fine learning pathways.
00:11:35.292 --> 00:11:42.072
Can you describe the role you think TECN plays in inspiring the next generation to become combat air leaders of tomorrow?
00:11:43.792 --> 00:11:46.652
I think there are two ways we need to look at this.
00:11:47.192 --> 00:11:56.432
There's the retention and development of our current members to help them become the future leaders.
00:11:57.032 --> 00:12:06.512
And then there's the inspiration of the next generation to join the STEM industry so that they can then go on to become future leaders as well.
00:12:09.072 --> 00:12:14.072
In the case of the former, the retention is a really important part.
00:12:14.472 --> 00:12:24.732
So with TECN, we're engaging our community and helping our members become aware of the opportunities in combat air.
00:12:25.032 --> 00:12:29.212
And this really helps us to retain that top tier talent.
00:12:30.312 --> 00:12:40.712
And the networking that we get out of this is really important, especially with the silo working that has arisen from the pandemic.
00:12:41.052 --> 00:12:48.412
These networking opportunities provide something really vital we've been missing the past couple years.
00:12:49.192 --> 00:12:58.992
We also improve those softer skills with all this communication and working together on projects and meeting new people.
00:12:59.812 --> 00:13:18.752
I think those softer skills are really vital in producing not just leaders, but well-rounded leaders with both the technical and interpersonal skills to continue advancing combat air and the skills of the people working in it.
00:13:19.412 --> 00:13:46.632
With regards to the latter, encouraging interest in the STEM industry, I think the things we do in TECN, like the air shows and going out to universities and to some schools, is really important in educating the next generation on the various roles that are available to them, some roles that they might not even be aware of.
00:13:47.732 --> 00:13:56.952
And that's how we can encourage that passion and hopefully help build up those future leaders of tomorrow.
00:13:58.872 --> 00:14:09.052
Finally, I'd like to pose a question to all of you about your hopes for the network as it strives to increase its base of members and reach beyond those who are currently working on the programmeme.
00:14:09.492 --> 00:14:11.212
Georgina Cole is coming to you first.
00:14:11.412 --> 00:14:13.812
What are your hopes for TECN going forward?
00:14:14.792 --> 00:14:26.012
Well, I'm really excited to open up to people outside of the FCAS programme because I think the programme itself is such a unique opportunity with so many exciting things they can get involved in.
00:14:26.272 --> 00:14:31.552
So opening up to that outside of who's directly working on the programme I think is really important.
00:14:31.772 --> 00:14:35.912
Even if maybe they don't work right now, they might come back into it again at a later date.
00:14:37.052 --> 00:14:42.852
And well, TECN, sorry, FCAS is, it's going to be, it currently is an international programme.
00:14:42.872 --> 00:14:45.092
I'm really excited to see where we can go with that.
00:14:45.392 --> 00:14:50.652
You know, can we get our members thinking internationally and getting those links set up internationally?
00:14:50.672 --> 00:14:53.492
I think that's a really exciting step I'm looking forward to in the future.
00:14:54.292 --> 00:14:54.992
Absolutely.
00:14:55.012 --> 00:15:03.512
And Georgiana Pill, building on what Georgina said, how do you hope the future direction of TECN will inspire a whole new generation?
00:15:04.592 --> 00:15:19.192
Yeah, so my aspiration is for the network to become international because we've already managed to collaborate within the UK and unlock a lot of knowledge here.
00:15:19.332 --> 00:15:24.972
So imagine how much knowledge we could unlock if we then expanded TECN and made it global.
00:15:24.992 --> 00:15:37.952
Yeah, I think that's something that really excites me, and I think it would be beneficial for members on both sort of a personal level and also really benefit the FCAS programme as a whole.
00:15:39.652 --> 00:15:47.732
Adarsh Bhardwaj, why is TECN such an important and exciting fast track for emerging talent?
00:15:48.452 --> 00:15:58.112
I would say because just once again, coming back to the way we're connecting people and giving them the opportunities that other industries wouldn't give you.
00:15:58.112 --> 00:16:05.672
So for example, already mentioned the mentoring scheme, but also just the way the programme is going global.
00:16:05.772 --> 00:16:07.372
We've got international partners.
00:16:07.832 --> 00:16:09.772
We're collaborating with them online.
00:16:09.792 --> 00:16:12.112
We're trying to now collaborate with them in person.
00:16:12.492 --> 00:16:24.712
So I think just continuing to do that will just fast track it in such a way because we're so invested in developing our engineers, as was mentioned earlier, not just becoming engineers, but well-rounded engineers.
00:16:25.492 --> 00:16:27.012
And that's what TECN is about.
00:16:27.032 --> 00:16:36.252
It's about giving you the complete picture and developing your skill sets as a person, as perhaps as an individual, beyond just engineering.
00:16:36.812 --> 00:16:42.932
Jashen Litesh, what would you like to see as some of the key factors in growing TECN in the future?
00:16:43.352 --> 00:16:52.212
So if I, I think for me, one thing that really stuck with me was one of my recent presentations from our Chief Engineer.
00:16:53.172 --> 00:17:06.012
So looking back at current trends, the Chief Engineer for FCAS when it's in service will be someone who's currently in sixth form and the pilot for FCAS will be currently, will be someone commonly in primary and secondary school.
00:17:06.432 --> 00:17:15.752
So what I would like to see is something that Hannah touched on during this podcast is around our STEM activities we do within our local community.
00:17:15.772 --> 00:17:34.892
So what I'd like to see is an increase in the number of activities we do with our community in our local areas and within the UK, internationally, as our colleagues have said, getting people interested in a career within the industry, within the aerospace and defence sector as early as possible.
00:17:35.332 --> 00:17:40.912
And Hannah, Richie, finally to you, what are your hopes for the future for TECN?
00:17:41.012 --> 00:17:56.212
I'd have to echo what Jashen said and what I touched on earlier about partnering with more universities and schools to make sure STEM careers are accessible to all.
00:17:56.692 --> 00:18:14.832
I think it's really important that we go to the really early stages of children's education to get their interest in STEM and their knowledge of it far earlier than we're currently doing.
00:18:15.252 --> 00:18:31.012
So for me, that would be a really interesting and beneficial thing for TECN to continue developing in order to get this interest right at an early age.
00:18:31.772 --> 00:18:43.992
So engaging with people earlier on seems to be a very important factor in spreading awareness and planting that sense of confidence in the fact that they could pursue a career in aerospace.
00:18:44.292 --> 00:18:52.132
And yet, it's still something that doesn't happen that often, primary age school children being approached about aerospace careers.
00:18:52.392 --> 00:18:56.672
What are some of the barriers, do you think, to rolling that out and the benefits?
00:18:58.072 --> 00:19:07.452
I think barriers probably come from society and our history, but I think it is something we're actively working on.
00:19:08.212 --> 00:19:16.512
I think what's required is a more active engagement from companies in the STEM industry.
00:19:16.532 --> 00:19:27.932
I think it should come from a government level as well in that encouragement and that fundamental level of educating about the STEM industry.
00:19:28.632 --> 00:19:35.832
The benefit there would just be a much wider pool of talent to draw from.
00:19:35.852 --> 00:19:44.492
That could only be beneficial to our increased learning and development and creativity.
00:19:44.832 --> 00:19:52.392
And that's something that's really, really important for FCAS and for these future technologies that we're using.
00:19:54.292 --> 00:20:00.412
Georgina, Georgiana, Adarsh,- Jashen and Hannah, thank you all so much for sharing your thoughts today.
00:20:00.912 --> 00:20:04.712
Join us again for the next episode of Future Horizons, The Tempest Podcast.
00:00:06.243 --> 00:00:08.583
Welcome to Future Horizons, The Tempest Podcast.
00:00:09.243 --> 00:00:10.583
I'm your host, Zevi Watmough.
00:00:15.892 --> 00:00:21.832
An essential pillar of the Team Tempest programme is engaging the next generation of engineers and aviators.
00:00:22.452 --> 00:00:35.292
TECN, the Tempest Early Careers Network, is focused on capturing the imagination and potential of individuals working on the programme at the start of their careers, as well as inspiring those who are embarking on their secondary education.
00:00:36.112 --> 00:00:44.072
This generation, Generation Tempest, will become the future leaders of the programme as the systems come into service in 2035.
00:00:44.992 --> 00:00:55.892
In this episode, we speak to TECN members so we can learn about their roles and experiences, as well as their vision for the transformative collaboration that will power Tempest far into the future.
00:00:56.692 --> 00:01:17.632
Joining us now are Georgina Coles, Ministry of Defence, DSTL Platform Systems Engineer, Georgiana Pill, Leonardo, Graduate Project Manager, Adarsh Bhardwaj, Rolls-Royce Thermo Fluids Engineer, Jashen Litesh, MBDA Mechanical Engineer, and Hannah Ritchie, BAE Systems Project Controller.
00:01:18.472 --> 00:01:23.132
Georgina Coles, Ministry of Defence, DSTL Platform Systems Engineer, coming to you first.
00:01:23.632 --> 00:01:31.352
You've had a fascinating journey from studying spacecraft systems engineering right up to your role today in TECN.
00:01:31.532 --> 00:01:38.352
Can you just describe the defining moments on your journey that led to you navigating your career towards the combat air sector?
00:01:39.312 --> 00:01:39.772
Hi, Zevi.
00:01:39.792 --> 00:01:41.712
Yeah, that's a great question.
00:01:42.072 --> 00:01:43.112
Gosh, defining moments.
00:01:43.192 --> 00:01:50.412
So yeah, definitely when I did spacecraft systems engineering at Southampton University, great course, really, really enjoyed it there.
00:01:50.772 --> 00:01:57.732
I think one of the parts that really stayed with me was one of my professors was really passionate about something called space debris.
00:01:57.992 --> 00:02:02.692
So for anybody who isn't aware of what space debris is, it's anything that comes off a spacecraft.
00:02:02.912 --> 00:02:06.592
It can be small like paint flecks all the way up to parts of a spacecraft.
00:02:07.392 --> 00:02:25.732
And it wasn't really considered much of an issue initially, but over the time and all the spacecraft that have launched, it's a real problem now because these parts are flying around, orbiting our planet and they become a real problem to spacecraft that are operating up there or manned as well.
00:02:25.972 --> 00:02:35.652
And that kind of ethos of thinking about the way in which we impact our environment and waste as well has really stayed with me, particularly into the FCAS programmeme.
00:02:36.512 --> 00:02:41.812
So I joined FCAS back in 2019 and from there I got involved in TECN.
00:02:42.272 --> 00:02:54.392
And my role as a TECN coordinator started off with being asked about a project, which was how can the FCAS programmeme help achieve net zero by 2050?
00:02:54.932 --> 00:03:02.212
This wasn't really something that I had originally thought about, that connection between the environment and sustainability and defence.
00:03:02.832 --> 00:03:05.312
And actually it's a really important connection.
00:03:05.612 --> 00:03:14.652
You know, normally it's sort of cost and capability, but sustainability is really, really key because we're operating in a very much climate changed environment.
00:03:14.892 --> 00:03:17.332
We have to adapt in order to be able to operate.
00:03:17.792 --> 00:03:31.312
And so that I've brought that with me and that kind of ethos all the way through from that space debris of actually, you know, where how we operate impacts everybody in this environment and we need to consider that going forwards.
00:03:32.412 --> 00:03:45.952
So I started the TECN Sustainability Team and at the moment, we're getting some really exciting projects off the ground, one related to materials and the kind of materials we use on the programme and one related to circular economy.
00:03:46.212 --> 00:03:53.752
So for anybody who isn't aware, circular economy is rethinking the way in which we use a product or materials.
00:03:53.772 --> 00:03:59.272
So less of the sort of design, build, use and dispose and more of can we repair it?
00:03:59.292 --> 00:04:00.152
Can we maintain it?
00:04:00.172 --> 00:04:01.072
Can we recycle it?
00:04:01.312 --> 00:04:02.932
And giving it an extended life?
00:04:03.412 --> 00:04:09.892
Obviously, the FCAS programme is way more complicated than something like a washing machine, but we can still apply those principles again.
00:04:10.292 --> 00:04:14.572
And I have members who I know are really excited about this and applying that.
00:04:14.932 --> 00:04:17.452
And I'm really looking forward to working with them going forwards.
00:04:18.772 --> 00:04:22.292
Georgiana Pill, Leonardo Graduate Project Manager.
00:04:22.732 --> 00:04:31.112
Georgina Coles has sort of walked us through this thread of sustainability that she's been aware of from studying right up to the present day.
00:04:31.132 --> 00:04:41.992
And it's kind of been a thread for you too, because you were seven years old at RIAT when you first encountered sensors and started thinking about aerospace.
00:04:42.312 --> 00:04:45.452
But before you came to TECN, you were in quite a different industry.
00:04:46.052 --> 00:04:50.792
And that might inspire people to know how you learned about TECN and then you then joined.
00:04:50.812 --> 00:04:52.012
Can you describe that journey?
00:04:52.932 --> 00:04:53.732
Yeah, exactly.
00:04:53.752 --> 00:04:59.272
So before Leonardo, like you said, I was working in the food industry, so quite different.
00:05:00.032 --> 00:05:04.612
And then I first heard about TECN during my first week at Leonardo.
00:05:04.832 --> 00:05:12.152
So both my manager and my new colleagues all encouraged me to join this network as it's full of opportunities.
00:05:12.692 --> 00:05:21.512
And it was the opportunity to see the wider aspects of the business that TECN provides that particularly excited me and made me want to join the network.
00:05:22.612 --> 00:05:29.992
And then I also decided to volunteer as a TECN coordinator to meet a wider range of colleagues whilst helping to organise events as well.
00:05:30.732 --> 00:05:43.192
And yeah, like you said, I've been attending events in the industry since I was seven years old, thanks to my dad, who always has and continues to be keen to share his interest in radio communication aircraft technology.
00:05:44.972 --> 00:05:48.252
And yeah, I've been to RIAT every year since 2004.
00:05:48.932 --> 00:05:54.872
And it was here that I was inspired by the aircraft and their sensing and communication systems, and also the people behind them.
00:05:55.392 --> 00:06:12.752
And then now, as part of TECN, I have the opportunity to be on the other side of these types of events as well, and be able to be one of the people who are encouraging other young people to get involved with the programmeme, you know, whatever your background, if you've got the interest, I think there's a role for you here.
00:06:13.532 --> 00:06:16.092
And this is something that I find particularly rewarding.
00:06:17.172 --> 00:06:19.972
Adarsh Bhardwaj, Rolls-Royce Thermofluids Engineer.
00:06:21.472 --> 00:06:25.932
It seems to be that the aerospace industry is shifting and changing every single day.
00:06:26.312 --> 00:06:32.532
Why do you think TECN is so central to the transformative nature of the Tempest programmeme?
00:06:33.172 --> 00:06:36.792
Yeah, I think TECN is a crucial aspect of the programme going forward.
00:06:37.252 --> 00:06:43.692
As the programmeme evolves and becomes more fluid, it's more crucial than ever to stay well-knitted and act as one big team.
00:06:44.312 --> 00:06:48.332
And the way we can enable that is through cross-company collaboration.
00:06:48.612 --> 00:06:51.212
And the better it is, the better our collaboration is.
00:06:51.852 --> 00:07:03.292
One way we're enabling that is through the cross-partner mentoring scheme, where early career individuals like us are partnered with one of the mentors, senior engineers, from one of the partnering companies.
00:07:03.652 --> 00:07:07.292
And what that does is allows a cross-partner enablement.
00:07:07.672 --> 00:07:12.452
It allows us to communicate, to learn from experience of an engineer from a different company.
00:07:13.052 --> 00:07:19.692
And by tying us up together, not only are we developing the next generation of engineers, but also becoming more well-rounded.
00:07:20.752 --> 00:07:26.192
We also do other things such as site visits, the dinners, the summer event.
00:07:26.272 --> 00:07:34.572
All of these things are crucial to keep that communication going, to keep us knitted together and remind us that we're all just one big team.
00:07:34.652 --> 00:07:40.132
Even though we're working in individual companies, we are all working towards the same end goal.
00:07:40.972 --> 00:07:42.612
And TECN is enabling that.
00:07:43.192 --> 00:07:48.792
And you know, when you were growing up, how much awareness did you have of opportunity?
00:07:49.872 --> 00:07:56.592
And do you feel that that sense of things being accessible and available to people is very important?
00:07:57.152 --> 00:07:58.112
Absolutely, yeah.
00:07:58.132 --> 00:08:01.912
Widening access is actually one of the things that we're trying to enable.
00:08:02.252 --> 00:08:06.412
Like, for example, myself, I didn't have that avenue into STEM.
00:08:06.432 --> 00:08:12.512
I didn't have that knowledge on what kind of subjects I need to pick, how I need to go into industry.
00:08:12.512 --> 00:08:15.232
And TECN is actually inspiring the future engineers.
00:08:15.252 --> 00:08:27.792
We're involved in a volunteering scheme that we're trying to roll out over the coming months, where we try and encourage the future generation of engineers to take up aerospace, to try and be involved within the defence sector.
00:08:28.232 --> 00:08:45.152
And one of that is to find, perhaps, people who wouldn't think or wouldn't be inspired to be engineers, trying to inspire them and encourage that by going into schools or by bringing them onto the site, like we did a couple of weeks ago, and doing workshops with them to really try and propel that forward.
00:08:46.372 --> 00:08:49.152
Jashen Litesh, MBDA Mechanical Engineer.
00:08:49.412 --> 00:08:56.732
It sounds as if when you're working in engineering, you have access to a lot of stimulation, a lot of interesting activities.
00:08:56.952 --> 00:09:02.572
Can you just explain how you've benefited both personally and professionally from being part of TECN?
00:09:04.472 --> 00:09:05.052
Absolutely.
00:09:05.072 --> 00:09:12.052
So, Zevi, so being part of TECN means that I have a large variety of events that I've had access to.
00:09:12.572 --> 00:09:29.252
For example, that could be from TECN team building activities, TECN projects, award evenings, and even in this TECN podcast, for example, it kind of gives me the opportunity to learn about the different roles that exist not just within MBDA, but across the wider enterprise as well.
00:09:29.892 --> 00:09:37.232
And also being part of the TECN community also means that I can present my work not just within MBDA, but within the key stakeholders as well.
00:09:38.492 --> 00:09:46.832
Something that I wanted to develop as part of my continuing professional development for chartership was how I communicate and present.
00:09:47.512 --> 00:09:58.892
And being on the TECN programme allowed me to present my work not just within MBDA, but also across the wide enterprise and with Leonardo, Rolls-Royce, et cetera.
00:09:59.532 --> 00:10:08.972
And I've got to understand how I actually present my work, how I present my work to our different stakeholders across the enterprise.
00:10:08.992 --> 00:10:11.552
And have you seen yourself change since you've become an engineer?
00:10:11.572 --> 00:10:16.352
Because I imagine that it sort of changes your brain about once you have that awareness.
00:10:17.732 --> 00:10:18.512
Oh, absolutely.
00:10:18.952 --> 00:10:30.152
So when I loosed off the graduate scheme, off the mechanical engineering grad scheme, one thing I got to learn about was how I actually deal with working in an ambiguous environment.
00:10:30.372 --> 00:10:40.492
So with this current role, I'm trying to work on mechanical transformation or activities within the TECN programme.
00:10:40.952 --> 00:10:44.772
And one thing that I've got to deal with is how I deal with ambiguity.
00:10:45.092 --> 00:10:49.392
And it's something that I initially struggled with when I first started with the project.
00:10:49.932 --> 00:10:55.772
But at MBDA, we have dealing with ambiguity and influencing training pathways.
00:10:56.272 --> 00:11:01.012
And it's something that I got to pick up whilst I did these training activities.
00:11:01.332 --> 00:11:03.412
And it's something that I got better at over time.
00:11:03.432 --> 00:11:11.272
I initially struggled with it, but after going through these training tool kits, I applied what I learnt to my day-to-day role.
00:11:11.412 --> 00:11:16.172
So I could actually deal with ambiguity and influence people in a more effective way.
00:11:16.832 --> 00:11:21.092
So then that kind of led to outcomes later on in the project as well.
00:11:21.772 --> 00:11:24.692
Hannah Richie, BAE Systems Project Controller.
00:11:24.712 --> 00:11:35.032
You're working right in the heart of the business and Jashen has just walked us through some of the skills he's acquired, like being able to deal with ambiguity and fine learning pathways.
00:11:35.292 --> 00:11:42.072
Can you describe the role you think TECN plays in inspiring the next generation to become combat air leaders of tomorrow?
00:11:43.792 --> 00:11:46.652
I think there are two ways we need to look at this.
00:11:47.192 --> 00:11:56.432
There's the retention and development of our current members to help them become the future leaders.
00:11:57.032 --> 00:12:06.512
And then there's the inspiration of the next generation to join the STEM industry so that they can then go on to become future leaders as well.
00:12:09.072 --> 00:12:14.072
In the case of the former, the retention is a really important part.
00:12:14.472 --> 00:12:24.732
So with TECN, we're engaging our community and helping our members become aware of the opportunities in combat air.
00:12:25.032 --> 00:12:29.212
And this really helps us to retain that top tier talent.
00:12:30.312 --> 00:12:40.712
And the networking that we get out of this is really important, especially with the silo working that has arisen from the pandemic.
00:12:41.052 --> 00:12:48.412
These networking opportunities provide something really vital we've been missing the past couple years.
00:12:49.192 --> 00:12:58.992
We also improve those softer skills with all this communication and working together on projects and meeting new people.
00:12:59.812 --> 00:13:18.752
I think those softer skills are really vital in producing not just leaders, but well-rounded leaders with both the technical and interpersonal skills to continue advancing combat air and the skills of the people working in it.
00:13:19.412 --> 00:13:46.632
With regards to the latter, encouraging interest in the STEM industry, I think the things we do in TECN, like the air shows and going out to universities and to some schools, is really important in educating the next generation on the various roles that are available to them, some roles that they might not even be aware of.
00:13:47.732 --> 00:13:56.952
And that's how we can encourage that passion and hopefully help build up those future leaders of tomorrow.
00:13:58.872 --> 00:14:09.052
Finally, I'd like to pose a question to all of you about your hopes for the network as it strives to increase its base of members and reach beyond those who are currently working on the programmeme.
00:14:09.492 --> 00:14:11.212
Georgina Cole is coming to you first.
00:14:11.412 --> 00:14:13.812
What are your hopes for TECN going forward?
00:14:14.792 --> 00:14:26.012
Well, I'm really excited to open up to people outside of the FCAS programme because I think the programme itself is such a unique opportunity with so many exciting things they can get involved in.
00:14:26.272 --> 00:14:31.552
So opening up to that outside of who's directly working on the programme I think is really important.
00:14:31.772 --> 00:14:35.912
Even if maybe they don't work right now, they might come back into it again at a later date.
00:14:37.052 --> 00:14:42.852
And well, TECN, sorry, FCAS is, it's going to be, it currently is an international programme.
00:14:42.872 --> 00:14:45.092
I'm really excited to see where we can go with that.
00:14:45.392 --> 00:14:50.652
You know, can we get our members thinking internationally and getting those links set up internationally?
00:14:50.672 --> 00:14:53.492
I think that's a really exciting step I'm looking forward to in the future.
00:14:54.292 --> 00:14:54.992
Absolutely.
00:14:55.012 --> 00:15:03.512
And Georgiana Pill, building on what Georgina said, how do you hope the future direction of TECN will inspire a whole new generation?
00:15:04.592 --> 00:15:19.192
Yeah, so my aspiration is for the network to become international because we've already managed to collaborate within the UK and unlock a lot of knowledge here.
00:15:19.332 --> 00:15:24.972
So imagine how much knowledge we could unlock if we then expanded TECN and made it global.
00:15:24.992 --> 00:15:37.952
Yeah, I think that's something that really excites me, and I think it would be beneficial for members on both sort of a personal level and also really benefit the FCAS programme as a whole.
00:15:39.652 --> 00:15:47.732
Adarsh Bhardwaj, why is TECN such an important and exciting fast track for emerging talent?
00:15:48.452 --> 00:15:58.112
I would say because just once again, coming back to the way we're connecting people and giving them the opportunities that other industries wouldn't give you.
00:15:58.112 --> 00:16:05.672
So for example, already mentioned the mentoring scheme, but also just the way the programme is going global.
00:16:05.772 --> 00:16:07.372
We've got international partners.
00:16:07.832 --> 00:16:09.772
We're collaborating with them online.
00:16:09.792 --> 00:16:12.112
We're trying to now collaborate with them in person.
00:16:12.492 --> 00:16:24.712
So I think just continuing to do that will just fast track it in such a way because we're so invested in developing our engineers, as was mentioned earlier, not just becoming engineers, but well-rounded engineers.
00:16:25.492 --> 00:16:27.012
And that's what TECN is about.
00:16:27.032 --> 00:16:36.252
It's about giving you the complete picture and developing your skill sets as a person, as perhaps as an individual, beyond just engineering.
00:16:36.812 --> 00:16:42.932
Jashen Litesh, what would you like to see as some of the key factors in growing TECN in the future?
00:16:43.352 --> 00:16:52.212
So if I, I think for me, one thing that really stuck with me was one of my recent presentations from our Chief Engineer.
00:16:53.172 --> 00:17:06.012
So looking back at current trends, the Chief Engineer for FCAS when it's in service will be someone who's currently in sixth form and the pilot for FCAS will be currently, will be someone commonly in primary and secondary school.
00:17:06.432 --> 00:17:15.752
So what I would like to see is something that Hannah touched on during this podcast is around our STEM activities we do within our local community.
00:17:15.772 --> 00:17:34.892
So what I'd like to see is an increase in the number of activities we do with our community in our local areas and within the UK, internationally, as our colleagues have said, getting people interested in a career within the industry, within the aerospace and defence sector as early as possible.
00:17:35.332 --> 00:17:40.912
And Hannah, Richie, finally to you, what are your hopes for the future for TECN?
00:17:41.012 --> 00:17:56.212
I'd have to echo what Jashen said and what I touched on earlier about partnering with more universities and schools to make sure STEM careers are accessible to all.
00:17:56.692 --> 00:18:14.832
I think it's really important that we go to the really early stages of children's education to get their interest in STEM and their knowledge of it far earlier than we're currently doing.
00:18:15.252 --> 00:18:31.012
So for me, that would be a really interesting and beneficial thing for TECN to continue developing in order to get this interest right at an early age.
00:18:31.772 --> 00:18:43.992
So engaging with people earlier on seems to be a very important factor in spreading awareness and planting that sense of confidence in the fact that they could pursue a career in aerospace.
00:18:44.292 --> 00:18:52.132
And yet, it's still something that doesn't happen that often, primary age school children being approached about aerospace careers.
00:18:52.392 --> 00:18:56.672
What are some of the barriers, do you think, to rolling that out and the benefits?
00:18:58.072 --> 00:19:07.452
I think barriers probably come from society and our history, but I think it is something we're actively working on.
00:19:08.212 --> 00:19:16.512
I think what's required is a more active engagement from companies in the STEM industry.
00:19:16.532 --> 00:19:27.932
I think it should come from a government level as well in that encouragement and that fundamental level of educating about the STEM industry.
00:19:28.632 --> 00:19:35.832
The benefit there would just be a much wider pool of talent to draw from.
00:19:35.852 --> 00:19:44.492
That could only be beneficial to our increased learning and development and creativity.
00:19:44.832 --> 00:19:52.392
And that's something that's really, really important for FCAS and for these future technologies that we're using.
00:19:54.292 --> 00:20:00.412
Georgina, Georgiana, Adarsh,- Jashen and Hannah, thank you all so much for sharing your thoughts today.
00:20:00.912 --> 00:20:04.712
Join us again for the next episode of Future Horizons, The Tempest Podcast.
