Jessica Whitford
MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Placement Year
Mentor: Pete Barnard-Taylor, Regional Director at Atkins Ltd.
Jessicañޙs passion for engineering began at the age of 13, when she set up her own one-person 3D design club during school lunchtimes. ñޜEven when the teacher didnñޙt show up, I did,ñޝ she laughs. ñޜThatñޙs how much I loved it.ñޝ Teaching herself software through YouTube tutorials, she soon discovered a world of possibilities; from Formula 1 to biomedical engineering and advanced manufacturing.
Personal experiences have also shaped her ambitions. Her fatherñޙs cancer treatment inspired her to consider how engineering can help transform medical technology. ñޜI want to work on solutions that make a difference to peopleñޙs lives,ñޝ she says.
The Tamar Engineering Project has given Jessica the freedom to fully pursue her degree. ñޜThe scholarship has allowed me to step away from part-time work and focus entirely on university,ñޝ she explains. Commuting from Cornwall is challenging, but sheñޙs consistently achieved distinction-level grades thanks to the time and energy she can now dedicate to her studies.
Her mentor has been invaluable in preparing her for the professional world. ñޜHeñޙs helped me refine my CV, prepare for interviews and think carefully about the skills I need to develop,ñޝ Jessica says. ñޜItñޙs boosted my confidence as I prepare to apply for a placement year in Formula 1.ñޝ
Jessica is also thriving within the University community. She is an active member of the Formula Student Team, recently becoming Head of Manufacturing Integration. ñޜWithout the scholarship, I wouldnñޙt have had the time to commit to such a big role,ñޝ she says. ñޜItñޙs also meant I can spend more time at home working with my familyñޙs CNC machine, something that really builds my skills.ñޝ
Looking ahead, Jessica has ambitious goals. ñޜIñޙd love to work in Formula 1 engineering,ñޝ she says, ñޜbut Iñޙm also open to using my skills in biomedical fields, where I know I could make an impact.ñޝ
And when it comes to the people behind her scholarship, she is clear: ñޜThank you for giving me the freedom to focus on my studies and passions. This has been the best educational experience of my life. Youñޙre helping students become professionals. Youñޙre giving us the space to develop, and the confidence to succeed.ñޝ
