Rachael Glaving, EDF's Commercial Director, has carved an impressive path in the nuclear sector. Her story is one of defying expectations, overcoming challenges, and ultimately achieving success in a traditionally male-dominated field. Rachael’s interest in the industry was sparked early on. At 16, she opted for an unconventional path, leaving school to pursue an apprenticeship as an electrician in a paper mill, following in her brother's footsteps. During this apprenticeship, a visit to a local substation solidified her passion for electricity distribution, leading her to a career at EDF (then SEEBOARD).
Rachael’s journey wasn't without its hurdles. Leaving school to pursue an apprenticeship was met with scepticism, with some questioning whether it was the right route for her to take. Additionally, being the sole female apprentice presented logistical challenges, including things like no designated changing facilities. Despite these initial difficulties, she persevered, proving her commitment and ability.
A pivotal moment in Rachael’s career arrived when she became an electrical engineer responsible for substation maintenance. This role, marked by trust, empowerment, and mentorship, instilled confidence and shattered notions that gender could hinder success in engineering.
As a leader in the nuclear industry, Rachael emphasises the importance of visibility for women in STEM. She argues, 'To encourage more women to enter, they need to be able to see women in senior roles at the top of their chosen industry. If there are no role models or examples of success how can they really believe that it's an area that they can flourish in?' Rachael also highlights the need to support women returning to STEM careers after breaks, stating, "These women can often feel unsupported and not valued when returning to the workplace."
Rachael is a passionate advocate for encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She emphasises the abundance of resources and support available for young women interested in the field. She encourages them to explore their specific interests within STEM and actively seek guidance from leading organisations and institutions.
As the Commercial Director at EDF, Rachael’s work in the growing field of nuclear power exemplifies the vast opportunities available to women in STEM. “There will always be ongoing challenges in achieving true gender balance but I’m optimistic about the progress being made.”