The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated on February 11, recognises the vital role that women and girls play in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Established by the United Nations, the day promotes full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls around the world.
At Versiv, our materials work depends on people in labs and on the production floor — so our partners can rely on consistent performance.
We spoke with three colleagues — Terri, Roisin and Eve — about their paths into science, from lab work, product testing and traceability, to developing new materials.
Terri Shannon,
Laboratory Supervisor
Never be afraid to ask for help and if someone says no or says, ‘you can’t’, smile and move on to the next person.
I have over 25 years’ experience working primarily in the site Lab with a focus on product testing, analysis, and traceability.
Can you share a bit about what initially inspired you to pursue a career in science?
I have always been a very detail-oriented person, a lover of logic and procedure. Science involves not only investigation but the ability to evidence your findings which really appealed to me.
What is a career win you are really proud of?
There have been several over the years, but one that stands out is my involvement in the commissioning of the Caster for Film Production.
Any advice of encouragement for women and girls considering a path in science?
Go for it, there will be obstacles along the way but there will also be people willing and happy to help you push through them. Never be afraid to ask for help and if someone says no or says, ‘you can’t’, smile and move on to the next person.
You can do anything if you work hard, have passion, and never take no for answer.
Roisin Ryans,
R&D Laboratory Technician
Problem-solving is a useful skill to have and having the ability to provide ideas and criticism despite your age is also useful.
My role involves developing formulations and testing new products for the business. I particularly enjoy the formulations aspect of my work, as it parallels my interest in painting in my free time.
Can you share a bit about what initially inspired you to pursue a career in science?
I’ve always loved watching the CSI and forensic shows growing up. I knew I wanted to be in the pharmaceutical or forensic science field. When I started secondary school, I loved studying biology. I also knew I wanted to study biology in college. I enjoy working in a quality control laboratory and enjoy testing materials.
What is a career win you are really proud of?
One of my key career achievements to date was successfully manually stripping a thin film from the carrier belt, which enabled a full production run of the film on the casting towers.
Any advice for women and girls considering a path in science?
Problem-solving is a useful skill to have and having the ability to provide ideas and criticism despite your age is also useful.
Science courses can have very difficult and stressful moments but stick with it as the payoff will be worth it.
Eve Collins,
Laboratory Technician
Even if it’s tough, pursue the path that you want.
I am a laboratory technician at Versiv. My science background is in pharmaceuticals and medical products.
Can you share a bit about what initially inspired you to pursue a career in science?
When doing the Leaving Cert Vocational Programme in secondary school we had a project on the future career of most interest to us, and mine was focused on laboratory work although I didn’t yet know which speciality I wanted to go into. I did work placement here at Versiv during that project and realised I really liked doing lab work.
What’s a career win you’re really proud of?
I became one of the co-technicians for a certain product within the business.
Any advice for women and girls considering a path in science?
Don’t be afraid to do a Post Leaving Cert Course or an extra science subject. During school I was from doing chemistry because they said it would be too hard for Leaving Certificate. However, I did a PLC in Laboratory Techniques and loved to subject. Do what you want to do and don’t be dissuaded.
If there is a subject that you really want to do, don’t let anyone tell you not to do it. Even if it’s tough, pursue the path that you want.
