The Women in Bus and Coach “Spotlight On” initiative shines a light on the incredible contributions of women in all roles across the bus, coach, and community transport sector. From professional drivers and engineers to human resources experts and CEO’s, ‘Spotlight On’ will highlight the diverse talents and achievements of women in this dynamic industry.
In support of International Women in Engineering Day, today we focus on and find out about:
Rebecca MacDonald
Apprentice Engineer
Pulhams Coaches
Tell us a little bit about your career journey
I Started off as a bus driver, when I was 18, with another company. I did 2 years in service then moved to Pulham’s Coaches doing service work for a year. Mechanics has always interested me, so I decided to take on an apprenticeship here at Pulham’s, leading me to where I am today – doing a level 3 Bus and Coach technician course, which I’m now coming to end of.
How did you get to where you are today?
Through the S&B automotive academy, I am currently working towards my Level 3 Bus and Coach technician course with support from Company and College.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
I found that having the strength to be able to crack off bolts and lift heavy components was a challenge, along with remembering all the characteristics of the vehicles, to be able to diagnose faults.
If so, how did you overcome then?
Strength comes with time, and you often learn to work smarter not harder. You can use different techniques to be able to complete the task, not making things harder for yourself.
What do you like about the sector? What inspired you to get involved?
I’ve always enjoyed mechanics. As I grew up, my grandad was a Mechanic and I always enjoyed loitering in his garage, but I never got into the right avenues to be able to have a go at it. When I came to Pulham’s, the opportunity arose, and I took it.
What did a typical day look like?
In the mornings I often come in and help with roll out and then complete a morning school run. Then in between schools I work with the mechanics in the workshop before doing an afternoon school. I then help out with buses coming back into the depot from their school runs or Private Hires before leaving in the evening.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus, coach or community transport sector?
I think that you should stick at it, build your confidence (which comes with time) as this is what I struggled with to begin with. Whether you’re a Coach driver, Bus driver or Mechanic – stick at it. Your confidence will come, and you will gain more knowledge and understanding to be the best you can be.
What has been your bus, coach or community transport sector career highlight?
My biggest highlight has been doing inspections on vehicles, which is leading me towards my irtec (Inspection Technician Accreditation) qualification. Also, being on 24 hour emergency call out, which helps with learning the diagnostic side of fixing vehicles.
What three things could the Bus and Coach sector do to improvement the industry for Women?
I feel there could perhaps be ore advertising aimed towards women, as well as better lifting equipment to aid the ability to manage tasks on your own.
What changes have you seen since in the sector since you joined?
There are now more opportunities to better yourself by taking training courses, to also make you more aware of things and improve your skill.
Thank you for sharing Rebecca, stories like yours make a real impact.
To find out more about who Rebecca works for, and career opportunities visit: https://www.pulhams.co.uk/jobs/
