Women in Cumbria are at the cutting edge of one of the most advanced technology sectors in the world – while role modelling career pathways for the next generation.
The Cumbria Robotics Cluster, powered by the Industrial Solutions Hub, based in Cleator Moor, is a group of businesses working in the field of robotics with a particular interest in the development of solutions for the nuclear industry and other harsh environments.
Leading figures in the industry have spoken about what drives their passion for robotics to mark International Women’s Day 2025 – a global event to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, which this year takes place today.
Jill Stewart, research professor in systems modelling and optimisation at the University of Cumbria, which is a member of the Cumbria Robotics Cluster, became interested in robotics while reading for an undergraduate degree in mechatronics which integrates mechanical, electrical, electronic and computer engineering.
“I create computer representations of complex systems to study their behaviour and interactions and ultimately find the best solution to a problem,” she said.
“My undergraduate degree sparked a life-long interest in how machines can be designed to do useful things. I’m really inspired by recent developments in AI that have opened a new world of possibilities for robots to take on difficult and dangerous jobs so that people can do interesting and important work.”
Amanda Smith is the UAV programme lead at Sellafield Ltd, another Cumbria Robotics Cluster member. She said robotics is an exciting sector to work in.
“I have worked at Sellafield for 26 years and have developed skills in various areas including radiometrics, E&I craftsperson and work management. The UAV role was a wildcard career move for me knowing nothing about drones, but one I’m pleased I took the chance on.
“I’ve developed the UAV capability over the last six years and am proud to deliver benefits from using robotics both on the Sellafield site and across the NDA estate.
“It’s great to see the use of new technologies to keep people away from harm and to overcome difficult engineering challenges, some of which have been long standing issues. It’s exciting to see what we can do with robotics today and what is to come from the continually evolving options.”
Kayleigh Daniels, head of development at React Engineering, specialists in nuclear decommissioning based in Cleator Moor, said: “What really attracted me to the sector was the complexity and unique nature of the problems.
“Some of the challenges really are pushing beyond the forefront of current science and technology and the advancements in these areas create an evolving picture; making finding the best solutions exciting and ever-changing.
“I’m still a passionate pragmatist, however robotics and technology gives us smarter and safer ways to solve intractable problems.”
The Cumbria Robotics Cluster was launched by iSH last year to bring together organisations with a shared vision to collaborate and elevate Cumbria as a global centre of excellence in robotics engineering and problem solving.
iSH programme director Miranda Kirschel, who received an MBE for services to equal opportunities in the nuclear industry, said: “Cumbria’s capability in robotics – one of the most rapidly advancing sectors in the world, is renowned.
“Women are leading the way in key roles in a number of our cluster member companies; it’s fantastic to be able to show the next generation that robotics is a genuine career pathway for them and to inspire future advanced engineers.”
