Skill Seeker

Career-changer Katie on her thrilling career from rollercoasters to critical machinery

Katie Eyre’s career to date demonstrates a blend of diverse experiences, an unwavering passion for engineering and importantly the dedication to pursue a fulfilling career – even if it does happen to come slightly later in life.

Katie, from Staffordshire, is a 30-year-old full-time mechanical engineering apprentice at Holcim.

Her professional journey began in business management, which she studied at university, and despite her academic background in business, she discovered her true calling during a Saturday job at Alton Towers.

Riding the construction wave

Initially joining as a ride host, Katie eventually became a resort assistant, which provided her with a unique opportunity to work closely with the engineers, assisting them in stripping down machinery to component level. It was through these hands-on experiences that Katie's love for engineering was born.

Motivated by her newfound passion, she sought to transition into engineering and applied to numerous companies as a full-time apprentice, ultimately finding a perfect fit with Aggregate Industries’ Cauldon cement plant. Here, Katie works alongside experienced fitters, contributing to the maintenance of the plant all while studying at college in Birmingham.

Her work involves a variety of tasks, including working at heights and in confined spaces, replacing parts, and performing complex maintenance on critical machinery.

Katie said: “No day is ever the same. It’s a physically demanding job but also highly rewarding.

“I’m actively involved in replacing bearings in ball mills, which requires precision and the use of cranes to lift heavy components. I also play an integral role in maintaining the kiln that produces cement, and regularly replace burners to ensure smooth operation.”

Breaking down barriers

Being the only woman in the factory, Katie thought that she might face some challenges but from day one she was integrated into the team and treated as ‘one of the gang.’

“I did have some reservations, but as soon as I met everyone those fears disappeared,” Katie said.

The field of heavy engineering demands physical strength and having worked her way up the ladder of a theme park for 11 years, Katie is meeting and in fact exceeding the physical challenges of the cement plant head-on.

Every 10 weeks, Katie returns to college in Birmingham to complete coursework, balancing her practical work with academia. This continuous learning approach ensures that she remains at the forefront of mechanical engineering knowledge and practices, with Aggregate Industries supporting her every step of the way.

Her journey from business management to mechanical engineering is an inspiring example of how diverse experiences and a passion for learning can lead to a fulfilling career, and it proves the importance of following passion, embracing challenges and continuously striving for excellence.

“I’d encourage anyone to switch careers if they are able to and have a passion for a particular industry or discipline,” Katie said. “In my eyes, it’s never too late to learn and who knows, in another 20 years I might switch again! But for now, I love my job and Holcim has given me this great opportunity that I am absolutely loving.”