Celebrating Women in Wienerberger: Hana Stephens

Meet Hana Stephens, Maintenance Team Leader on Blue Shift at Factory 6 in Sandtoft.  Hana joined Wienerberger UK & Ireland three months ago from Veolia, where she was Site Manager on their Power Plant and Water Treatment plant projects in Grimsby. Here Hana shares her career journey with us.

How did you get started?

I started with a five-year Mechancial Engineering Apprenticeship with British Steel. During my 4^th year I took a year out to have my son. On returning to work I completed my apprenticeship and then took up the role of Maintenance Engineer working on British Steel’s locomotives and diesel engines. In 2013, I was promoted to an Environmental Control role and at the same time took the decision to self-fund myself through a Bachelor Degree in Engineering Design. When my role was made redundant, I moved to the Civils and Maintenance team where I planned and managed the work. In 2017 I transferred my Bachelors Degree to an Integrated Masters Degree and the following year I moved to Veolia.

​​​​​​​Why did you decide to go into the construction industry?

My Dad was an Electrical Engineer and he was keen we followed in his footsteps.  As kids we tinkled in Dad’s workshop taking things apart and re-building them, we just loved it. I guess it’s in the genes.

Why did you decide to join Wienerberger UK & Ireland?

My role at Veolia was more desk based and I really wanted a more hands-on role and to refresh my skills. I saw a role advertised, applied for it and ended up being offered this role, which I love.

​​​​​​​How have you found it this far?

It’s been excellent.  I’ve had lots of support settling in, the management team are very involved and visible and there’s good benefits too.  The team I work with are great, we work as equals whilst recognising when we need help from each other.

What does the future hold for you?

Firstly, I want to build back my skills, then I would like to progress to a management role where the balance is weighted towards hands-on over desk.

​​​​​​​What do you get up to outside of work?

As a single mum it can be quite hard at times, however I have very supportive parents that have enabled me to fulfil my potential both professionally and personally.  ​​​​​​​I’m currently working towards my black belt in kick boxing, I have competed in the past and I’m a referee/judge which takes me all over the UK. I’m proud to say one of my teammates is going to Italy to compete later this year.  I’m also a black belt in Taekwondo and teach Junior classes and I’m studying for a Sports & Fitness qualification.