Senior Human Factors Consultant - Mima

It was such a well-structured course. All the students go through the same process, but we could branch out into our own interests.  My fellow students came from a variety of backgrounds - engineering, ergonomics, automotive, physiotherapy - and the course was at the right level to appeal to us all.

 

Explain Human Factors and Ergonomics and why you took this course? 

It’s a varied field, all about understanding humans and using science to design inclusive solutions to improve people’s lives.  I was especially interested in how I could improve physical and mental wellbeing through sustainable innovations, from creating ATM machines for someone who struggles with technology to ergonomic seating for trains, so this course really appealed to me.

What did you do when you graduated?

I was a Graduate Trainee Engineer (Human Factors) at Bombardier Transportation and after two years progressed to become a Human Factors Engineer at the same company. In total, I spent almost four and a half years at this company. 

What do you do now? 

After working at Bombardier Transportation, I became a Senior Human Factors Consultant at Mima which is a human-centred design agency based in London (UK). 

What's your favourite thing about your job?   

Getting positive feedback on my work. I worked on ergonomic seating for trains on the Elizabeth Line in London and one of my friends called me to say how good it is, which is lovely to hear. It's such relatable field so people can see and feel the benefit of my work. It’s great to feel I’m making a difference. 

What was your favourite thing about your degree? 

It was such a well-structured course. All the students go through the same process, but we could branch out into our own interests.  My fellow students came from a variety of backgrounds - engineering, physics, ergonomics, automotive, physiotherapy - and the course was at the right level to appeal to us all. 

How did your time at university help shape your career?   

The biggest benefit of course is the community of fellow students and professionals. It gave me a good foundation and having a membership of Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF) allowed me to delve into this topic and nicely set out my career path. 

How were you supported whilst doing your master’s course? 

My Course Director was very helpful and supportive, encouraging us to join CIEHF and go to career fairs. 

I had an interview at short notice and went to see The Careers and Employability Service for advice. They were kind enough to quickly arrange a mock interview to help prepare me.  I got the job! 

What did you enjoy about your social time at UoN?  

I loved the sports, especially the variety at David Ross Sports Village, it’s amazing.  It was really nice to socialise with everyone afterwards. 

There were so many opportunities to try different hobbies and sports, so I tried a lot: boxing, trampolining, fencing, the climbing wall and I joined the Gliding Society.  I’m not a person for heights and I felt some terror getting the glider into the sky, but once you’re up there it’s wonderful.  I would never have had this opportunity without the University of Nottingham. 

What advice would you give someone considering studying Human Factors and Ergonomics MSc? 

Get an understanding of what human practice ergonomics is from the prospectus, to see if it excites you and then find the course director or alumni to have a chat.  I talked to some alumni before I started and it was very, very useful to find out what the course is and what job opportunities it can offer. 

The course is open to a diverse background of interests. Ask yourself what your interests are and what can you use this course for?  It's for a broad audience and not too technical, so it’s a very inclusive course.