Whitworth Visionary 2016: SOPHIE MORRISON
Sophie Morrison joined BAE Systems in 2008 on their Nuclear Engineering Trainee Scheme. She completed an HNC with a distinction and then progressed to a part time degree in Mechanical Engineering from Liverpool John Moore’s University. After completing her bachelor’s degree Sophie joined the Imperial, Cambridge and Open University Centre for Doctoral Training; studying first for a Masters in Nuclear Engineering at Imperial College London, and now for a PhD at the University of Cambridge.
At BAE Systems, Sophie worked on the nuclear submarine build programme. She had a number of different roles, which included Radiation Physics & Shielding, Instrumentation Development, and an external placement with the Office for Nuclear Regulation. “The nuclear industry is a diverse, interesting and exciting area to work in. It combines some of the most technically challenging roles that the wider engineering industry has to offer”.
Sophie’s PhD is jointly funded by the EPSRC and Thor Energy and focuses on management of the UK plutonium stockpile through the use of thorium fuelled light water reactors. “I grew up near Sellafield, so there is a very real, personal interest in this subject for me.”
Sophie has maintained close links to BAE Systems, making regular visits to their site, and intends to return to the company in the future. She is a keen supporter of nuclear energy: “Nuclear is an incredibly energy dense form of electricity generation, providing the most energy for the least space used. It has one of the lowest levels of greenhouse gas emission of any type of electricity generation currently available.”
Sophie has always been interested in engineering, and found the apprentice route appealed to her preference for wanting to understand how and why something was being done, not just learning facts for exams. The engineering skills shortage is, however, a growing problem. “Engineering needs to be accessible to everyone from an early age. We need to promote the fact that if you choose a career in engineering the possibilities are endless. Now is perhaps the most exciting time to join the nuclear industry as we're looking ahead to advanced reactor designs, new fuels and next generation technologies.”
Sophie was thrilled to win the award. “It was a big surprise to win this award,” explains Sophie. “I was flattered to be chosen from the Whitworth Scholars. I would like to thank BAE Systems for giving me the opportunity that led me to this point and for their ongoing support. I am also incredibly grateful to the Whitworth Society and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers for their belief in my abilities.”
Read about all the awards recognised at the Vision Awards