As the world marks International Women in Engineering Day, we are proud to celebrate a story that truly embodies the spirit of this important day.
Katie Wallace, CNC Operator Apprentice at Hydrasun Manufacturing Division in Aviemore, has been named Scottish Engineering’s Modern Apprentice of the Year 2025 – a remarkable individual triumph, but also a powerful moment for representation in an industry still striving for gender balance.
Katie’s Journey Into Engineering
Katie’s route into engineering was anything but conventional – and that’s exactly what makes it so important.
Raised in Aviemore and initially set on a military career, Katie’s plans were upended after a medical discharge from the army. What followed were years of uncertainty and a series of short-term jobs – from warehouses to go-kart tracks – until a job advert from Hydrasun caught her attention. It was for a CNC Operator Apprentice role. She didn’t know what CNC machining was. She hadn’t considered engineering before. But she took a chance.
“In the beginning, I hated it. I didn’t think I could do it. I asked to be taken off the machines three times,” Katie recalls. “Each time, I was told no. I’m so thankful for that. Now, I love what I do. I’ve become the most competent apprentice in my team.”
Katie’s story is one of self-belief earned the hard way. It’s a story that countless women in engineering will recognise - stepping into a male-dominated space, facing self-doubt, and pushing through to claim your place.
Creating Space for Growth
At the heart of Katie’s success is a working environment that believed in her potential when she wasn’t sure of it herself.
Hydrasun’s apprenticeship programme is more than a pipeline for technical skills, it’s a launchpad for people like Katie. Our teams offered Katie mentorship, patience and hands-on learning that allowed her to turn fear into confidence, and hesitation into mastery.
“Katie is a clear example of what can happen when talent meets opportunity,” says her manager. “She has not only developed technical excellence but has become a role model for others starting their journey.”
Hydrasun is committed to fostering diversity in engineering, not as a box to tick, but as a fundamental strength of a modern workforce. Katie’s journey reinforces that when we create inclusive environments, we open the door to untapped potential.
Representation That Matters
Katie will be a featured panel guest at Scottish Engineering’s Celebrating International Women in Engineering Day event on Monday 23 June 2025, alongside other women leading change in the sector. The event will shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of woman across industry, while exploring how we can create more inclusive pathways to STEM.
“It’s an honour to speak at the INWED event,” Katie says. “If sharing my story helps even one woman realise there’s a place for her in engineering, it’s worth it.”
Looking Ahead
Katie’s recognition as Modern Apprentice of the Year 2025 is a milestone – but not the destination. She represents a growing movement of women who are reshaping the engineering landscape. And at Hydrasun, we’re proud to be part of that story.
We believe engineering should be driven by skill, passion, and potential. That’s why we continue investing in inclusive training pathways, celebrating diverse success stories, and championing women like Katie, who are forging their own path and inspiring others along the way.
