IF YOU are female and interested in science and engineering then you could find yourself in demand with EDF.


The French energy firm behind Hinkley Point nuclear power station is seeking to recruit female engineers and technicians through its Pretty Curious marketing campaign. 
One woman who has bucked the trend is Amy Edmundson from Bridgwater, who has trained as an electrical engineer. 


Ms Edmundson attended King Alfred’s School in Burnham-on-Sea and looked around for a career and a college course.


“I’ve always been interested in science subjects,” she said. “When I saw the EDF apprenticeship I really wanted to do it. I applied and my application was successful. 


“It is a four-year apprenticeship with two years in Portsmouth living on a navy base, which is great.
“Then you spend two years back in Somerset working on Hinkley B power station.”


One of the attractions of the course is the social side, says Ms Edmundson, who adds that everyone looks out for each other and you make friends for life.


She also said it was an amazing opportunity for young women and hoped that more would be inspired by her experience.


 “I don’t think enough girls realise there are really good jobs available in science-based subjects, because they see engineering as dirty engines and something that is hands-on and greasy,” Ms Edmundson explained. “But actually it’s not like that. 


“There is so much you can do with a science qualification, so many different jobs available and it’s all about awareness for girls about these opportunities that needs to be pushed.”
She said career prospects are really good, and salaries are higher in engineering than many other subjects.


Ms Edmundson works as an electrical maintenance engineer at Hinkley B.
She checks all the wiring and installations, which she says is practical and interesting, and poses new challenges all the time. 


Jobs range from cleaning electrical components to checking batteries and panels.
Much of the training is carried out in the simulator suite at Cannington Court. 

“It’s a really interesting industry, as science is always developing,” Ms Edmundson said. “A lot of girls would do well in it”. 


She added: “No girl should feel she isn’t good enough to do science.
“Women are just as good as men, if not better.”