07-03-2025
The Cumbrian women leading the way in robotics
Women in Cumbria are leading the way in one of the most advanced technology sectors in the world.
The Cumbria Robotics Cluster, powered by the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) in Cleator Moor, is a group of businesses focused on developing robotic solutions for the nuclear industry and other challenging environments.
To mark International Women's Day 2025, key figures in the industry have shared their passion for robotics.
Jill Stewart, research professor in systems modelling and optimisation at the University of Cumbria (Image: Supplied) Jill Stewart, a research professor in systems modelling and optimisation at the University of Cumbria, became interested in robotics during her undergraduate degree in mechatronics.
She said: "I create computer representations of complex systems to study their behaviour and interactions and ultimately find the best solution to a problem.
"My undergraduate degree sparked a lifelong interest in how machines can be designed to do useful things.
"I'm really inspired by recent developments in AI that have opened a new world of possibilities for robots to take on difficult and dangerous jobs so that people can do interesting and important work."
Amanda Smith, UAV programme lead at Sellafield Ltd (Image: Supplied) Amanda Smith, the UAV programme lead at Sellafield Ltd, said robotics is an exciting sector to work in.
She said: "I have worked at Sellafield for 26 years and have developed skills in various areas including radiometrics, E&I craftsperson and work management.
"The UAV role was a wildcard career move for me knowing nothing about drones, but one I'm pleased I took the chance on.
"I've developed the UAV capability over the last six years and am proud to deliver benefits from using robotics both on the Sellafield site and across the NDA estate.
"It's great to see the use of new technologies to keep people away from harm and to overcome difficult engineering challenges, some of which have been long-standing issues.
"It's exciting to see what we can do with robotics today and what is to come from the continually evolving options."
Kayleigh Daniels, head of development at React Engineering (Image: Supplied) Kayleigh Daniels, head of development at React Engineering, specialists in nuclear decommissioning based in Cleator Moor, said: "What really attracted me to the sector was the complexity and unique nature of the problems.
"Some of the challenges really are pushing beyond the forefront of current science and technology and the advancements in these areas create an evolving picture; making finding the best solutions exciting and ever-changing.
"I'm still a passionate pragmatist, however robotics and technology give us smarter and safer ways to solve intractable problems."
The Cumbria Robotics Cluster was launched by iSH in 2024 with the aim of bringing together organisations with a shared vision to collaborate and elevate Cumbria as a global centre of excellence in robotics engineering and problem-solving.
iSH programme director Miranda Kirschel, who received an MBE for services to equal opportunities in the nuclear industry, said: "Cumbria's capability in robotics - one of the most rapidly advancing sectors in the world, is renowned.
"Women are leading the way in key roles in a number of our cluster member companies; it's fantastic to be able to show the next generation that robotics is a genuine career pathway for them and to inspire future advanced engineers."
