Derry’s Teresa Burns inspires next wave of female engineers as Omexom fund grows

Omexom, the global energy infrastructure organisation with headquarters in the UK & Ireland, has announced the expansion of the Sharlene Gill Scholarship for Women in Engineering, marking a significant milestone for a fund created in memory of a respected colleague and industry figure.

The scholarship was established three years ago to honour Sharlene Gill, from Donegal, who joined the business at 18 years old and went on to serve as Omexom’s first female Business Unit General Manager before her passing at just 40 years old. Her leadership, passion, and commitment to supporting young women in engineering continue to guide the programme.

Omexom has now confirmed the scholarship will expand to Glasgow and the University of Strathclyde, enabling more young women across the UK & Ireland to follow in Sharlene’s footsteps.

Initially launched at Ulster University, the scholarship has helped transform the futures of its first two graduates - Kayleigh Campbell of Strabane and Teresa Burns of Derry - who have both completed their degrees and now work full-time within Omexom.

“It’s more than just financial support; this scholarship helped me believe that someone like me belonged in engineering,” said Kayleigh, reflecting on her experience. Teresa added, “Now, working full-time at Omexom, it feels like I’m carrying on something very special — I never would’ve thought this was possible.”

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Simon Innes, Managing Director for Omexom UK & Ireland, says, “Sharlene worked for us for over twenty years and was a trailblazer - a leader who showed that engineering is for everyone. Extending this scholarship into Glasgow is a proud moment for us and a meaningful way to continue her legacy further afield.”

Simon continues, “The scholarship is there to offer early opportunity and experience and hopefully enable others to be given the same opportunities that Sharlene was able to embrace and capitalise on.”

The Sharlene Gill Scholarship provides a full tuition fee waiver in Ireland, which will be replaced with financial support for Scottish applicants who already have their University fees paid, and a dedicated placement-year programme at Omexom, giving students both financial support and hands-on industry experience.

To find out more about careers with Omexom Ireland, visit: careers.omexom.ie/.