Rachel Glaving, Commercial Director for EDF's Nuclear Operations Business, has had a remarkable career spanning over two decades. In this case study, Rachel shares her journey, starting as an apprentice electrician and working her way up to a senior leadership position at one of the UK’s leading nuclear energy companies. Her story demonstrates how a variety of skills can lead to success in the nuclear sector.

Rachel's journey began at the age of 16, when she left school to pursue a four-year apprenticeship. She decided early on that she wanted to become an engineer, choosing a practical, hands-on route rather than the traditional academic A-level pathway. As an apprentice, she worked as an electrician in a paper mill while attending college, eventually earning her qualifications and later a degree in electrical engineering.

After completing her degree, Rachel joined Seaboard, the Southeastern Electricity Board, as an operational engineer. It was here that she became part of EDF when the company was acquired. Since then, Rachel has been with EDF for over 24 years, holding various roles and seizing opportunities for growth, including a five-year expert assignment in France.

Rachel’s decision to pursue an apprenticeship was unconventional at the time, especially for a female in a male-dominated industry. She recalls being the only woman in her apprenticeship and facing challenges such as the absence of female changing rooms, having to use a cleaning cupboard instead. Despite these hurdles, Rachel was determined to carve out her place in the industry.

Today, she recognizes how much the industry has changed. While there is still progress to be made, she acknowledges the increasing awareness and efforts toward gender diversity and inclusion, especially with groups like Women in Nuclear playing a significant role in driving this change.

Rachel has witnessed significant changes in the nuclear sector throughout her career. She notes that apprenticeships have evolved, with opportunities like degree apprenticeships merging academic and hands-on learning, making the field more accessible. The sector itself has also transformed, becoming more exciting and forward-looking, driven by its role in delivering low-carbon electricity and supporting Net Zero goals.

Nuclear is now perceived as a dynamic industry with a clear purpose, which resonates with younger generations. Rachel believes this shift in perception is one of the key reasons the sector is thriving today.

For Rachel, one of the most rewarding aspects of working in nuclear is the sense of community. She emphasizes how the industry has become a tight-knit network of professionals who collaborate and share knowledge across organizations. With the growing focus on nuclear energy, this collaboration has become even more important, enabling businesses to work together on innovative projects and share resources.

As the sector continues to expand, Rachel sees numerous opportunities on the horizon. On the defence side, projects like the AUKUS submarine program are creating a wealth of career possibilities. Meanwhile, on the civil side, the existing fleet of power stations, the construction of new plants like Hinkley Point C, and the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) present exciting prospects.

Additionally, the UK’s positive regulatory environment and growing expertise make it an attractive destination for reactor vendors and technology providers. This, combined with the expanding decommissioning sector and increasing demand for energy sovereignty, creates a broad spectrum of career paths within nuclear.

Rachel's key piece of advice for those considering a career in nuclear is to explore the vast range of opportunities available. There is a misconception that one must be a nuclear physicist to enter the industry, but this isn’t the case. Whether your background is in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering, strategy, supply chain management, or business development, there is a place for you in nuclear.

She encourages anyone interested in the industry to identify their passions and explore how their skills can be applied to the diverse range of roles in nuclear. Rachel believes that all roads can lead to a rewarding career in this fast-growing sector.

Rachel Glaving’s journey from apprentice electrician to Commercial Director at EDF showcases the diversity of opportunities within the nuclear sector. Her story highlights the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and embracing new challenges. As the nuclear industry continues to grow and evolve, Rachel’s advice to aspiring professionals is clear: explore the sector, identify your passions, and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

With nuclear energy playing a pivotal role in the UK’s clean energy future, the sector offers a wealth of exciting and meaningful career paths for those ready to take the leap.