Volunteer Spotlight: Clare Dunkerley

Volunteer role(s): Mentor, school STEM volunteer and IChemE Sprint work experience contributor (Process Engineering in the Energy Sector)
Job title: Head of consulting at Otto Simon

Why do you volunteer?
I am passionate about making science an accessible subject to children in general and especially girls. General perceptions of science and engineering I see are that it is too hard and intimidating, but I like to promote the fun and exciting side to the children I work with in schools.

I think it is really important to start changing the narrative around engineering being a dirty, hazardous occupation to the reality that it is a vital contributor to the world having a safer and more sustainable future. I find that really inspiring and I want to share that view with as many young people as I can.

What is your favourite recent volunteer activity and why?

I really loved having the opportunity to contribute the IChemE Sprint virtual work experience platform. Although the filming was a new challenge and a bit outside my comfort zone, it was a fantastic experience and a lot of fun. Devising a real-life exercise that could be simplified to engage the target audience [students aged 13–18], and incorporating energy sustainability really inspired me to think about how to engage with people remotely and create something challenging and interesting. Working with people in media and production gave me an insight into an industry I hadn’t been exposed to before. It was a fantastic experience.

What is one piece of engineering could you do not do without,
and why?

My Kindle! Although I love the smell and feel of a paper book, this little piece of technology help keeps my luggage light when I travel!

This the 30th article in a series that highlights the variety of work done by IChemE member volunteers. To read more, visit the series hub.

Are you interested in becoming an IChemE volunteer? Volunteers help strengthen our community and it’s good for your CPD. To browse the latest volunteering opportunities, visit: https://www.icheme.org/about-us/people/volunteer-for-icheme/volunteering-opportunities/