A FEMALE Barnton student is aiming to tip the gender balance in a male-dominated industry and land a dream job in engineering.

Mid Cheshire College has been actively encouraging more females into the industry through collaboration with local schools.

Now 16-year-old Sam Price from Barnton has taken on the challenge of a level three BTEC extended diploma in engineering.

Sam studies fabrication and welding as well as engineering.

She said: “I really enjoy soldering and welding – I am better at it than I thought!

“I hope to concentrate on mechanical engineering; I enjoy fixing things rather than designing. My aim is to gain an apprenticeship through TTE, training tomorrow’s engineers.”

Sam is joined by Katey Ikin, from Moulton, who loves motorsports and in particular Formula One, she said: “I’d love the chance to travel the world doing something I enjoy, with an organisation like Red Bull.

“But before that I want to continue to higher education through either the HND or foundation degree or apprenticeship route.”

However, both Katey and Sam are not fazed by being in a male-dominated environment.

Katey added: “I am used to it, I did electronics at school and was the only girl. I also attend a youth group where we do a lot of outdoor activities and that is mainly boys too.”

Sam said: “I am a bit of a tom boy anyway and always liked boys’ toys.”

After completing their training the girls will have the opportunity of becoming modern-day women engineers.

“This training means we can do the job of our dreams,” the girls added.

For more information on engineering courses contact the college on 01606 74444.