Celebrating 26 years in the fast-moving fuel storage and distribution sector, Kerry MacIntosh is justly proud of her career progression in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
She was the first woman to be appointed to her current role of Terminal Supervisor at Certas Energy’s Inverness Oil Terminal back in 2005. As a front-line member of the team she administers the day-to-day fuel storage, handling and bunkering operations at the busy facility, whilst also ensuring that the highest standards of safety, security and customer service are maintained.
Kerry has certainly come a long way since, aged 16 and straight out of school, she was taken on as an SVQ Admin Apprentice by the company operating the terminal at the time. After passing her three-year apprenticeship with flying colours, Kerry was keen to take her career to the next level. She was, therefore, delighted when her ambition was recognised and her application for the position of Operations Assistant supporting the terminal’s supervisor team was successful.
Kerry subsequently completed an HNC in Admin and Information Management and an NVQ in Bulk Liquid Warehousing and Control Room Duties. She has also been awarded NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety & Health) general certification – a globally recognised qualification.
In 2020, Kerry was encouraged by Certas Energy to undertake an SVQ Apprenticeship in Management in order to further develop her admin, communications and management skills. She says completing this apprenticeship has given her so much confidence both professionally and personally.
And always looking for the next challenge, Kerry recently jumped at the chance to train to become one of the company’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Champions – a role that she is very passionate about. Having completed her training she now helps to promote, identify, and signpost ways to support the wellbeing of colleagues as well as those who regularly visit the facility, such as fuel tanker drivers.
Kerry says she loves her job and being part of an industry that plays such an important role in keeping the UK moving. She is also grateful for the opportunities she’s been given to advance her career in what is often perceived as a man’s world.
Based on her own experience, she says the industry offers rewarding careers regardless of your gender and whether you are an experienced professional, a graduate, or, like she was, a young person looking to earn while they learn. And although women may still be in the minority, she believes things are changing and is pleased to see that leading companies like Certas Energy now have more female directors and are taking steps to attract more women into the workforce.
© Tank Storage Association