Marika’s Journey Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
Marika’s journey at Runshaw College has been anything but ordinary – in the best way possible! She joined us in 2008, kicking off her teaching career in A Level 3D Design before stepping up as Course Leader. But her path didn’t stop there. As the world of STEM grew at Runshaw, so did her passion for shaping the future of engineering. Bringing her wealth of knowledge and industry expertise, she made the exciting move to our School of Professional Engineering, where she now leads the Design Engineering course.
Marika thrives on adaptability, using her skills to bridge the gap between education and industry. A fierce advocate for women in STEM and our T-Level programmes, she’s always thinking ahead – making sure our students gain the real-world skills they need to succeed in an ever-evolving job market.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
Before entering teaching, I had the privilege of working as a designer, which allowed me to travel the world and collaborate in a busy design studio in Clerkenwell, London. A particularly memorable moment was working with students at Huddersfield University on a design project. I was struck by the energy and enthusiasm students brought to their work, and I found it exhilarating to witness their creative growth. This experience, coupled with my own memories of impactful tutors during my college years, sparked my desire to teach. I wanted to foster that same sense of community and inspiration that helped shape my own future.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
The most rewarding aspect of teaching is seeing the growth of my students as they enhance their skills. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness their work evolve, and knowing I played a part in that development is both empowering and motivating. It’s not just about the grades; it’s about seeing students embrace feedback, grow in confidence, and apply their learning in meaningful ways. The sense of teamwork within our department and the continued connections with students as they progress in their careers make the job even more gratifying.
How has your industry experience shaped your teaching?
My time in the design industry has been invaluable in shaping my approach to teaching. Working at high standards and pushing for quality in design projects helped me understand what students should strive for in their work. This experience taught me how to create flexible, effective lesson plans that resonate with students and prepare them for real-world challenges. I aim to instil these same high expectations in my students, preparing them to confidently engage with employers in the future.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of applying for a teaching role?
If you’re considering applying, I would say this is an incredibly rewarding role where you’ll be part of a supportive, collaborative team. At Runshaw College, you’re not just joining an institution—you’re joining a network of dedicated professionals who genuinely care about student success. It’s a dynamic environment where you can thrive and make a real impact on students’ lives.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the tangible progress students make. There’s a unique thrill in watching them improve and refine their work after receiving feedback. Knowing that the skills and lessons we impart are having a direct effect on their development is incredibly fulfilling. Plus, the sense of camaraderie and support within our department makes the work environment enjoyable. And of course, the holidays and half-term breaks are a great perk!
