Driven by a deep curiosity and passion for problem solving, Kirstin’s future would inevitably align with engineering. “I picked subjects that I enjoyed, which sort of led me to where I am now as an engineer,” she laughs.

After graduating from the University of Kent with a Masters in Computer Systems Engineering (MEng), Kirstin wanted to stay close to where she studied – in southeast England. Stumbling upon career opportunities in the defence industry and captivated by what the sector has to offer, she applied to General Dynamics’ graduate scheme programme. From the beginning – down to her first interview – she instantly felt it was the perfect fit, “the culture, and the people, everything about this company, aligned with my values straight away.”

An interview, a decade, and a few roles later, Kirstin has become well-versed in systems engineering and shares her expertise as a Principal Systems Engineer. Providing technical leadership, primarily within the weapons integration domain, she highlights the invaluable chance to be connected to our customers.

“It’s taking what we do at our desk and turning it into a real-life solution that keeps our forces safe.”

Kirstin credits the chance to embrace challenges and acquire new learning opportunities as a key driver for where she is now. One opportunity she took advantage of was General Dynamics’ ‘Systems Engineering Architecture Leadership (SEAL) programme.’ A one-year development scheme that provides engineers with development opportunities, the chance to visit General Dynamics Mission Systems’s sites around the world, and a postgraduate certificate in Systems Engineering from the Stevens Institute of Technology. Kirstin really enjoyed the program sharing that “It was really awesome – a lot of work – but well worth it in the long run.”