Inspiring answers by Melanie Foster, one of our STEM Ambassadors on her life and working market development and the tech and maritime sectors.
Name and job role
Melanie Foster – Founder of a boutique market development consultancy operating in the tech and maritime sectors.
What is something about you people might not know?
I was a volunteer lifeboat crew member for four years. It was very rewarding and challenging. There was a lot to learn, but what I learned most was the value of teamwork and the saying that has always stayed with me “One hand for you, one for the boat”.
What are your hobbies?
I have enjoyed competitive yacht racing for over 30 years, I enjoy long walks in the countryside with my gundog and, having had a passing interest in photography for many years, I recently started an advanced diploma to build more technical skills.
Working in Market Development
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
Depends on which month it was in the year! Variously a policewoman, dance teacher, scientist, vet. I started my first business at 21, so always, since then, an entrepreneur.
Who was your biggest influence growing up?… who were your role models?
My father had the most significant influence on my life. My role models were, and have remained, any global entrepreneurs, adventurers or peers that challenge the status quo.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
Through middle school, I would say geography, sciences and maths. The first computing qualifications came about while I was at school, and I was quick to sign up. That was the beginning of a lifelong engagement with the industry.
What were your least favourite subjects at school?
I would have to say that my least favourite subjects related to those teachers that I couldn’t engage with. I wasn’t very good at art, memorising historical facts or at a competitive sport.
How did you come to choose your current career path or were you led to it?
I have always taken (or at the very least considered) every opportunity that has presented itself. Sometimes that led me down a dead-end path for a short while; then I would find another path that made more sense. Looking back over a 30-year career I can see how each choice was an important part of learning and developing.
Working in Market Development
What are the biggest changes in the world of work (for women) that you are excited about?
The world has changed dramatically over the past 30 years. It will likely change at least as much again over the next 30, particularly around fixed-job functions, career paths, geography, working patterns. I am excited for those young people that will embrace diversity, change, risk, and uncertainty and be doing work that they love in a role that no one has even thought of right now.
Would you say having a degree is the only path to a successful career?
Absolutely not! I didn’t finish my undergraduate degree until I was 35 and am in the middle of studying for a Master’s now.
Would you say there are opportunities for women entrepreneurs in your career?
Without doubt. I’d be happy to speak with any young people who would like to talk more on this topic.
What advice would you give your younger self and school leavers today?
That every introduction and every opportunity is valuable, even if you can’t see that value today.
Make sure to follow this series on STEM Careers Guide.
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