Emily Taylor-Dickinson
Product Marketing Assistant at Oxley Developments
Key Details:
| Current industry | Manufacturing & Engineering |
|---|---|
| School attended | Ulverston Victoria High School |
| College/training provider attended | UVHS Sixth Form |
| Year completed GCSEs | 2020 |
| Favourite lessons at school | English, Art, Health and Social |
Q&A
— Give a short overview of your career journey after school
After completing my GCSEs at UVHS I decided to attend Sixth Form to complete my A Levels in English Language, Art and Sociology. I then decided to go to university to study as I thought it was the best option for me to continue my Education. However, I realised university life wasn't for me and decided to come home and find an apprenticeship in Cumbria. I applied for a Business Administration Apprenticeship at Oxley Developments as they were offering an opportunity to further my education whilst gaining invaluable work experience.
— What do you love about your job?
My favourite thing about my time at Oxley is that I have had the opportunity to work with other departments and get a wider understanding of how the business operates. Because of the size of the business, it has been easy to get to know the different people and get support when needed. What I love about my job specifically is that every day is different and I get to work with a wide range of people.
— What piece of advice would you give to young people about finding their best next step?
Don't worry about finding your dream job straight away, just make sure to try as much as you can. There will be lots of things you don't enjoy and lots that you do but that's what makes you realise where you really want to be.
I have met people over the age of 40 who still don't know what steps they want to take and are still working towards their dream job so there is no rush.
— What three essential skills do you think have helped you to be successful in your job?
Listening, Staying Positive, Teamwork.
— What advice would you give to someone considering working in your industry?
Growing up I wasn't particularly interested in the manufacturing industry, the general work contrasts what I enjoyed in education, I enjoyed English and Art, not Science, Math's or DT. However, I now realise the complexity of businesses and the different roles and skills they require to be successful.
So I would say never limit yourself to where you believe you will fit, most industries will have an area of interest to you. And the manufacturing industry is a great place to start your career.
— What is the best piece of advice you have been given that has helped you on your career journey?
Trying and failing is better than not trying at all.