Leigh Frazer: Production Manager

Job title:

Production Manager at MintMech Ltd

Location:

Penryn, Truro

What inspired you to go into engineering?

My Dad is an engineer (now retired) but I grew up hearing all about offshore drilling operations and looking at endless photographs of drilling equipment. Far from putting me off, this actually normalised the engineering industry for me. When it came to leaving school I still wasn't sure what career path to take but I knew that I didn't want to be a secretary or a hairdresser. With my brother also now studying engineering at University, I decided to also take that route but in a more practical way as an apprentice. I have never regretted it.

What do you love about your job?

The variety, and the sense of achievement when I see a design through to reality. Also the people, I get to work with the most inspiring and interesting people every day and it makes going to work exciting.

What advice would you give to a young person looking to start a career in your industry?

From my experience in a fabrication and machining environment, the biggest thing I’d say is get stuck in as early as you can. Engineering isn’t just theory – it’s about understanding how things actually go together, what works on the shop floor, and how designs translate into something real. The more hands-on experience you get, the quicker it will all make sense.

Why would you encourage more girls to pursue a career like yours?

I’d encourage more girls to go into engineering because it’s a career where you can genuinely see the impact of your work. Whether it’s something designed on a screen or built in a workshop, you’re creating real, tangible outputs that solve problems – and that’s something everyone should feel able to be part of.