Holly Phillips Ship Science, 2002

Senior Naval Architect, Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Poole

Hi, I'm Holly Phillips and I studied Ship Science within Engineering and the Environment at the University of Southampton.

If you want to make a difference and get involved with something extremely enjoyable and worthwhile then try a career in engineering!

What do you do?

I am part of a team of engineers based at RNLI's headquarters in Poole. We are responsible for the engineering aspects of our fleet of all-weather lifeboats, inshore lifeboats, launch and recovery equipment and also for the boat equipment. I am specifically responsible for overseeing the construction of the new lifeboats built from advanced composite materials and for writing structural repair specifications for the boats that have been damaged.

What's the best part of your job?

Working with great people who all have a common interest and enthusiasm for boats. I am particularly lucky to work for such a worthwhile organisation, which helps saves lives. I have always enjoyed challenges, and figuring out logical engineering solutions to them is very rewarding, particularly when I can see the results first-hand.

Why did you go into this career?

As a child, I spent a lot of time on boats and it was an ideal opportunity for me to get paid for doing something I really enjoy!

What is your education/experience?

Up to age of 16 : I obtained nine O levels, including maths, physics and chemistry. I also worked as crew on a 12m passenger boat in Dorset. After 16 : I stayed on at school and obtained four A levels in maths, further maths, physics and chemistry. I then went to university where I studied for a BEng (Hons) degree and a further degree (PhD) in Ship Science at the University of Southampton.

Any advice on getting the first job?

This was really down to me being in the right place at the right time. It was through a mutual contact and I ended up designing ship's rudders, which was extremely interesting. This just goes to show that making contacts in the industry you would like to be part of is very important!

How would I get to do your job?

Seek some guidance about the different paths into engineering which suit your individual capabilities and interests. Work hard and try to get some work experience so you can decide which aspect of engineering interests you most. Always try to keep an open mind and never be afraid to ask questions!

What is your advice to potential students?

If you want to help make a difference and get involved with something extremely enjoyable and worthwhile then try a career in engineering!

What are your hobbies?

I am a volunteer RNLI inshore lifeboats helm and all-weather lifeboats crew on Poole Lifeboat. I also row/cox Cornish pilot gigs.