Shini Somara: What do you do as an application engineering technical manager?
Sarah Chapman: My company, 3M, makes a variety of products including industrial adhesives. My job is to manage a team of engineers who continue to develop sealing and bonding solutions for trains, planes and cars. It’s fascinating how widely used our products are. Before this job, I never appreciated this. I assumed, for example, that most vehicles were either screwed or welded together, but often adhesives can be used to keep weight to a minimum and help reduce component fatigue. Despite leading my team, I am constantly learning from their expertise.
SS: In addition to your job, why are you so passionate about being a STEM Ambassador?
SC: Originally a chemist, I feel it is my responsibility to help to improve the way in which STEM is represented. Role models are usually big stars of the industry, who are highly accomplished. But their impressive accomplishments can often make...