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The award is in recognition of her outstanding contribution to STEM outreach and her professional achievements during the past four decades.
“I am absolutely over the moon to have been given this award, recognising not just my work achievements, but also my passion for supporting our young engineers and encouraging young women, in particular, into STEM careers,” she said.
“The event was packed with amazing, inspirational women, all of whom had great stories to tell but firmly believed we are all ‘just doing our day jobs’. I’d like to say a huge thank you to my colleague, Olivia Freestone, for nominating me, WISE for the award and a lovely, uplifting evening, and to Leonardo for the last 40 years of fun!”
Leonardo highlights that she is an award-winning mathematician and systems engineer, who “has developed outstanding know-how in the field of Electronic Warfare with Leonardo”. She is also a visiting professor at the School of Defence & Security of Cranfield University (UK). You can read more about her career here.
Fiona says her own journey through STEM has made her a passionate advocate, which has seen her at the forefront of Leonardo engagements with many schools, colleges and universities. Over the years, she has also mentored many female apprentices and graduates within the company, and more recently has been mentoring RAF personnel. It is estimated that she has taught 2,000 military and civilian personnel.
Head of Capability
As Leonardo UK’s Head of Capability, based at the Luton site, she is responsible for driving the development of future systems, ranging from helicopters to remotely piloted aircraft through to 6th generation fighters.
“It gives me great pride to see many of these women now carrying out senior roles in industry and in the military, while continuing to trail blaze as role models themselves,” said Clark, at the ceremony last week. “I have been so lucky with the things I’ve been able to do in my career and the wonderful people I’ve met, and have enjoyed every minute. So to be recognised for doing what I love is just wonderful.”
Image: Leonardo
See also: Leonardo to develop Nasa’s infrared sensors to find habitable planets
