Rebecca works full time in engineering and wanted a qualification that would help her progress within her company. She is studying an HNC in Mechanical Engineering at Wigan & Leigh College through evening classes, fitting her studies around her working day.
Rebecca, Mechanical Engineering at Wigan & Leigh College
Story Video
Background
Goal
The evening course is built around people in work. Rebecca finishes her shift, heads home, and arrives at college for half past five. The HNC is widely recognised across mechanical engineering, and many more senior roles list it as a minimum requirement.
The HNC is aimed at people who want to build their technical and problem-solving skills, whether they are starting out or already work in the sector and want to upskill. Part-time routes include daytime and evening options. Students learn in specialist mechanical engineering labs and CAD suites, with smaller class sizes, one-to-one academic support, and employer connections through guest speakers, live projects and visits.
Journey
Rebecca likes the way the assignments are set and says the tutors are always there when she needs help. One of the best parts for her is learning something at college and then putting it into practice in her job. Her company values her and has backed her studies, and she sees the HNC as a series of stepping stones up the career ladder.
Outcome
Rebecca would recommend this route to more women and girls, who she feels can sometimes be put off engineering. In her view it is a great industry with pathways for everyone, and the HNC opens the door to more senior technical roles.
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