The STEM Demystified Digital Portal is now live, a new home for real STEM stories made for teachers, educators, and curious young learners. Built to make STEM feel closer, friendlier, and genuinely possible, the portal brings together global role‑model stories, interactive exploration, and classroom‑ready inspiration. It’s a growing resource designed to help children see themselves in STEM, and to give educators an easy way to bring real‑world representation into lessons. Explore the portal at stemdemystified.com.
Welcome to another edition of STEM Demystified, where we aim to tackle the under-representation of women in STEM by showcasing their incredible journeys and achievements.
Today, we are thrilled to feature Luci-Anne Anson , a remarkable young professional who has already made significant strides in the field of engineering and construction. At just 23, Luci-Anne’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of supportive communities.
Born in the United Kingdom, Luci-Anne grew up with a deep-rooted interest in science and technology, inspired by watching her parents work in STEM-related fields. As a child, she once dreamed of becoming an airline pilot.
Despite facing discouragement during her A-Levels, Luci-Anne persevered and ultimately earned a degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering from Swansea University. Her academic journey included a global research project in partnership with Texas A&M University, where she explored innovative solutions in sustainable construction. Now a Junior Consultant at Turner & Townsend, Luci-Anne continues to break barriers and inspire others with her passion and dedication.
Luci-Anne is a massive foodie and loves cooking and eating! She also enjoys singing and song writing, reading, and being surrounded by nature or cats. Let’s now delve into how she navigated her challenges and emerged as an inspirational professional and role model.
What was your trajectory from school to where you currently are professionally or academically?
Growing up with a nurse and train engineer/operator as parents, I had a keen interest in STEM which was then fostered by a strong support from my secondary school. Through many events and initiatives, I always felt motivated to do my best and disregard my gender as a barrier to being successful in STEM.
Unfortunately, it was when I switched schools for my A-Levels where my self-belief in STEM was tested. I entered a completely polarising environment where I was discouraged from studying maths and physics, which given the sixth form was an all-girls school was disappointing to say the least. This discouragement severely knocked my confidence and was reflected in my A-Level results. However, with the help of my family and friends, I used this negative experience to propel past the limitations put on me and just challenge myself. I realised I had nothing to lose!
After completing my schooling, I achieved a bachelor’s degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Swansea University. During my penultimate year, I actively participated in a global research project in partnership with Texas A&M University. Together, we designed a 3D Concrete Printer for potential use in the Swansea Uni labs, which fuelled my passion for exploring what the future of sustainable and ethical construction could look like for London’s transport systems.
Now, I am working as a Junior Consultant at Turner & Townsend, where I continue to contribute to the field of engineering and construction.
What motivated you to get into STEM? Did you have a female role model or anyone who inspired you? If so, who?
When I was younger, I was absolutely convinced I was going to be a pilot! This idea came about after watching a series called ‘Airline’ which documented the various roles of EasyJet employees.
My mother mentioned I read about Bessie Coleman, the first black woman to become a pilot. Living in a world where black women are considered an after-thought, I could only imagine the hardships Bessie faced in pursuit of her dreams. The more I read, the more I felt honoured to be a living embodiment of Bessie’s legacy.
What’s your most important professional or academic achievement?
Academic wise, definitely my degree, I’m so proud I accomplished it! It did not come easy, but I endured the challenges, and I am all the better for it.
An unexpected but pleasant surprise is being in a position where I can now share my story to help other young women realise their aspirations can become a reality.
Did you face any challenge throughout your professional/academic journey? How did you overcome it?
Throughout my journey, I encountered various challenges which were all symptoms of imposter syndrome. My sixth-form experience made me extremely cautious with my studies and career, to the point where I began to doubt my abilities and felt like I wasn’t deserving of my professional/academic settings, regardless of the qualifications proving otherwise.
Ultimately, I knew this mindset of fearing failure was becoming a tangible blockade between my reluctance to take on new opportunities.
To overcome this, I accepted my feelings were valid. I then actively worked on reframing my thoughts and recognised my accomplishments and strengths rather than dwelling on former shortcomings that I not only couldn’t change but had also learned a great deal from.
Whilst this may be a work-in-progress, I make a conscious decision to exercise my resilience and self-assurance daily, which is the key to growth.
In your opinion, what needs to be done to attract more women into STEM?
To attract more women into STEM, it’s essential to foster an inclusive environment that promotes diversity and actively addresses barriers that women may face.
I believe encouraging early exposure to STEM subjects through engaging programs and initiatives, providing mentorship opportunities, and highlighting the achievements of women in STEM can inspire the next generation.
Additionally, promoting work-life balance, offering flexible career paths, and addressing unconscious biases can create a more welcoming and supportive environment for women considering a STEM career.
What advice would you give to anyone looking into a career in STEM (or those who do not consider it)?
GO FOR IT! My advice would be to stay curious, embrace challenges, and never stop learning! Explore various fields within STEM to find what truly ignites your passion. From there seek out mentors (personal and professional) and role models who can offer guidance and support along the way.
Don’t be afraid to take risks and pursue opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. Remember, the impact you can make in STEM is limitless, so believe in yourself and your abilities to make a difference.
“A woman is like a teabag, you can’t tell how strong she is until you put Her in hot water.” — Bessie Coleman
As we wrap up this inspiring interview with Luci-Anne Anson, it’s evident that empowering women in STEM goes beyond breaking barriers; it involves actively challenging and dismantling long-standing stereotypes that discourage women from pursuing these fields.
By redefining societal expectations and fostering a culture of inclusivity, we can ensure that women feel welcomed, supported, and valued in STEM environments.
To attract more women into STEM, we must create opportunities that nurture their interests from a young age and provide flexible career paths that accommodate their diverse needs.
Highlighting the achievements of women in STEM, promoting work-life balance, and addressing unconscious biases are crucial steps in this direction. Let Luci-Anne’s story be a reminder that with determination and the right support, women can make significant contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, shaping a brighter future for all.
