Sophie Harker
Chair
Occupation:
Engineer (Aerospace)About:
As an engineer, I work on developing technologies for fast jets, hypersonic aircraft and spaceplanes. I have been fortunate to work on some (literally) out of this world projects, across the globe, and been awarded various accolades for this work, including the IET’s Young Woman Engineer of the Year and the Sir Henry Royce Medal.Why Epistemic is important to me:
I was 19 years old when I met Dr Helen Sharman (the first British person in space); she was the first person to explain to me what engineering is. She inspired me to follow this career path and I am determined to continue passing on this inspiration to as many young people as I can.
Laura Hoang
Chair
Occupation:
Aerospace Design EngineerAbout:
I have had a very varied career to date, working on different military aircraft platforms and testing technologies for the civil aviation industry and have been presented with a couple of awards for my contribution to the industry. Aside from this, I am a Council member for the Royal Aeronautical Society.Why Epistemic is important to me:
When I was at school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do, and had no idea what STEM careers were out there. Coming from a traditional Asian background, my family wasn't always supportive of my education and career pursuits. I believe that everyone- children, teachers and guardians should have access to career information so that they are able to make informed decisions about their future, with the support of those around them.
Tom MacLean
IT
Occupation:
Security ConsultantAbout:
I previously worked as a helicopter charter pilot, instructor and examiner, before transitioning to IT security. This is closer to my roots as a mathematician and I am currently studying Computer Science with Cyber Security to keep myself learning.Why Epistemic is important to me:
I had the good fortune and privilege to go to a school where there were often speakers and seminars given to help people choose a career, so there was a high awareness of the potential range of jobs that we could go into. I'd love to see that being offered across the U.K. so that young people aren't limited in their options due to a lack of awareness.
Will Hampshire
Trustee
Occupation:
Trainee Primary School Teacher, previously Events FundraiserAbout:
I have previously worked in the charity sector for eight years, with a large amount of volunteering experience behind me as well. Over the summer, I decided to take the plunge and make a career change towards my dream job, primary school teaching.Why Epistemic is important to me:
Everything I have done in my career to date has been based around helping people and making a positive difference. When the opportunity to join Epistemic as a trustee arose, to work with passionate people to help further student’s education, it was an easy decision.
Ryan Holmes
Trustee
Occupation:
TeacherAbout:
After graduating from the greatest university in the world - The University of Nottingham - I went on to complete the Teach First programme in Lincoln and later moved to teach in an international school in the USA before returning to London. Outside of teaching, I tend to geek out on live sport (especially rugby) and politics.Why Epistemic is important to me:
Working in both Primary & Secondary, I have seen first hand the impact of broadening pupils’ horizons. The lightbulb moment - when inspiration strikes - is a special experience that every child deserves to experience and I am determined to ensure we reach as many young people as possible.
Sarah Purnell
Trustee
Occupation:
Diagnostics Account ManagerAbout:
I’m a Biochemistry graduate working in the in vitro diagnostics industry. My current role supports hospitals with their diagnostic service in order to improve patient care. I love how technology can help us diagnose diseases in a matter of minutes or hours and it’s always improving.Why Epistemic is important to me:
I wasn’t aware of many career paths in science that weren’t medicine, veterinary etc. Now I know there’s so many amazing STEM jobs for different passions and different types of people. I think a platform such as Epistemic can be a fantastic way to share these discoveries with younger people.
Douglas Kern
Trustee
Occupation:
Engineer (Civil)About:
I am an Engineer working on the design and construction of Major Projects within London, which I have been doing since 2014. I have worked on a variety of large scale construction projects at differing stages of design and build.Why Epistemic is important to me:
I think there is a huge opportunity for engineering and its future direction to be shaped by the next generation of engineers coming through. I believe Epistemic is a great platform to be able to help reach out to the next generation to be part of this.
Nicola Gibbs
Trustee
Occupation:
TeacherAbout:
As a Maths Leader and Year 6 teacher in North London, I spend much of my day exploring interesting topics and subjects with my pupils. Recently- whilst teaching- I have gained a Masters in Education and I am on the board of Governors at the school I teach at.Why Epistemic is important to me:
Through both my class teacher role and my leadership role, it is clear that pupils struggle to understand why STEM subjects are important and the roles these subjects have in everyday life. As a teacher, I am currently preparing pupils for life outside of the classroom and for the roles they will play in society; it is vital that pupils’ horizons are broadened through real-life experiences and contexts. Therefore, I believe Epistemic provides a wider range of pupils with these essential links which will help them prepare for the next stage in their lives.
Anika Ved
Trustee
Occupation:
Freelance Events ManagerAbout:
I have worked in the not for profit charity sector for 6 years as well as had experience volunteering in different capacities at events. I have also volunteered with children for 4 years and I have experience managing volunteers. I love bringing people together and seeing them learn something new.Why Epistemic is important to me:
I am passionate about inspiring the next generation and providing them a platform to follow their dreams.