We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new campaign, ‘Day in the Life of Women in the UK Aluminium Industry’, celebrating the talent, dedication, and career journeys of women shaping our sector. This inspiring series will provide an exclusive look into their daily routines, motivations, and the key factors behind their success.
In our third episode, we sit down with ARUN Technology’s Head of UK Operations Anna Richardson, as she highlights what gets her through the day, gives an insight into her current role and how it fits into the aluminium industry, what she sees as the most exciting trend or change happening in the UK aluminium industry right now. Finally, she finishes off with some valuable advice that she would give young women who are considering a career in the metals industry. Keep reading also for an insight into where Anna would be if she wasn’t delving into a career in aluminium!
- What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order to power through the day?
My go-to is green tea. It has a lot of good properties such as antioxidants, and helps to improve brain health, the immune system, energy and stress levels. It is a great way to get me ready for a busy day of completing application projects, working closely with our global distributors and customers on solution-based requests and running the day to day activities within the office.
- Can you describe your current role and how it fits into the aluminium industry?
As the Director of ARUN Technology Limited, I take an active role in the daily operations of the company, while also contributing to the development of solutions for the high-demand requests of our customers and global distributors.
My role involves understanding the unique needs of the aluminium market when it comes to our analytical solutions, whether they are desktop or handheld. Every customer, current or prospective, has specific requirements, and often, bespoke calibrations are needed to tailor our solutions to help them succeed.
- What do you think is the most exciting trend or change happening in the industry right now?
One of the most exciting trends in the aluminium industry today is the advancement in recycling technologies aimed at enhancing sustainability. Traditional recycling processes often face challenges due to impurities like iron, which can degrade the quality of recycled aluminium.
This is a good thing in my opinion, because it gives ARUN Technology a chance to promote our CALIBUS Al (LIBS): a handheld analytical instrument designed specifically for the aluminium scrap and recycling industries. The opportunity to be able to help the industry with offering a solution to support their sustainability goals, is very important and rewarding.
- What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the metals industry?
Don’t be intimidated by the fact that the metals industry has traditionally been male dominated. Knowledge is your greatest asset. When you know your field inside and out, people will respect your expertise, regardless of gender. Focus on building your technical skills, staying curious and seeking opportunities for growth.
- If you weren’t working in aluminium, what career would you see yourself in?
Homeopathy and alternative medicine. As it is focused on healing and wellness, it is something that I have always been drawn to. It involves helping people, which is something I find meaningful and fulfilling.
To follow Anna on LinkedIn, please click here.
