For Mimi, Principal Supply Chain Manager at BAE Systems, stepping into the nuclear sector was a leap into the unknown—but one that paid off in spades. Originally from Barrow, Mimi transitioned from the fast-paced consumer goods industry to the nuclear field, seeking not just a job, but a career with purpose. “I wanted something long-term, where I could grow and feel like I was making a real impact,” she explains.

The stability and longevity of the nuclear sector were key factors in Mimi’s decision to make a career change. “I was looking for more than just a role—I wanted a career that offered opportunities for development and a sense of purpose,” she shares. Having grown up in Barrow, she was well aware of the nuclear sector’s reputation for providing fulfilling, long-term careers.

What excited her most, however, was the chance to start fresh in a completely new industry. “I loved the idea of challenging myself in a sector that’s so critical to the country’s infrastructure and economy,” Mimi reflects.

Initially, Mimi wasn’t sure if she would fit into the nuclear sector. “I worried I wasn’t technical or scientific enough for the job,” she admits. But she quickly discovered that her expertise in collaboration, stakeholder management, project management, and procurement made her a perfect fit for the supply chain role.

“What I learned is that you don’t need to know everything about nuclear to succeed here,” Mimi emphasises. “The technical knowledge comes from your colleagues—you just need the skills to bring everything together.”

Her role purchasing parts for nuclear reactors required a team-focused mindset, working alongside operations and engineering teams to ensure projects ran smoothly. The realisation that she could thrive in this complex environment gave her a new sense of confidence.

Mimi’s career in nuclear has been marked by growth and meaningful milestones. She began purchasing parts for nuclear reactors, an experience that honed her ability to navigate high-stakes projects while collaborating with diverse teams.

After maternity leave, Mimi took on a new challenge—establishing the Supply Chain Early Careers Programme, designed to bring in graduates and apprentices. “Seeing young professionals come into the industry and flourish in their roles has been one of my proudest achievements,” she says.

Now back in a purchasing role, Mimi enjoys working closely with the product and contributing to the development of the UK’s nuclear capabilities. “Every day brings something new, and knowing my work supports critical national infrastructure is incredibly rewarding,” she shares.

For Mimi, the most fulfilling part of her career is the sense of purpose that comes with working on projects of national importance. “Knowing I’ve played even a small part in something as monumental as a submarine or a reactor is an incredible feeling,” she says.

She recalls the pride of seeing submarines she’s worked on come to life, knowing that her efforts helped bring those massive, complex machines into existence. “It’s the kind of work that makes you stand a little taller,” she adds.

Mimi’s advice for those considering a career in nuclear is simple: don’t let a lack of technical knowledge hold you back. “The sector needs more than engineers,” she explains. “There’s room for all kinds of skill sets, whether you’re in supply chain, HR, or communications.”

She encourages potential applicants to focus on their transferable skills and how they can contribute to long-term, impactful projects. “If you want to work on something meaningful, nuclear is the place to be,” she says.

Mimi is passionate about inspiring the next generation of nuclear professionals. She stresses the importance of showcasing the diverse range of roles available. “Campaigns like Destination Nuclear are vital,” she explains. “They highlight that you don’t have to be an engineer to have a successful career in the sector.”

She also advocates for engaging young people through school outreach and social media. “If we can show students what’s possible in nuclear, we can attract a more diverse range of talent,” she says.

Mimi’s journey into the nuclear sector is proof that you don’t need a technical background to thrive. Her transition from consumer goods to nuclear demonstrates the power of transferable skills and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

“If you’re curious about nuclear, do your research, look at the opportunities, and don’t underestimate what you bring to the table,” she advises. With her work supporting national security and economic growth, Mimi is proud of the path she’s taken—and she’s excited about what lies ahead. “It’s a career that challenges you, rewards you, and gives you a sense of purpose,” she says.