We’re celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science—this year taking place on Wednesday 11 February—by spotlighting inspiring female role models who are part of our region’s Defence community. Each of the reservists and cadets we meet has a strong interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Meet Cadet Lance Corporal (LCpl) Czech from Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Army Cadet Force (ACF), whose enthusiasm and talent for STEM has flourished thanks to her ACF training and the encouragement of her local detachment.
How long have you been a cadet? I’ve been a member of the ACF for close to three years—I’ve really enjoyed my experience and feel that I have developed a wide range of valuable skills. My motivation for joining was that I wanted to take part in new hobbies and challenge myself. I have always had an interest in military equipment and vehicles, and I wanted to learn more about the Army and how it operates.
What STEM-related topics have you covered in the ACF and what aspects have you particularly enjoyed? I’ve encountered a few science and STEM-related topics during my cadet training, particularly physics. This has included understanding basic principles that are applied in practical activities, with elements of design also being integrated into the training. These topics have helped me see how science and engineering are used in real-life military and cadet situations.
One activity I really enjoyed was a STEM task carried out within my detachment, where we had to decode information from a series of photographs. Using the information we gathered, we then had to design and build a catapult from scratch. I found this activity really engaging as it involved problem-solving, teamwork, and applying both physics and design skills.
I also really enjoyed a work experience event with Brinkley Aerospace, where we were tasked with disassembling a propeller, replacing components such as bearings, gears, and the drive band, and then reassembling it. I feel that I excelled in this activity and this experience significantly increased my interest in STEM and motivated me to study physics further, as well as explore aerospace engineering courses, careers, and future work experience opportunities.
How has the ACF supported you in developing your confidence and skills in STEM? The ACF has provided me with opportunities to take part in additional learning and experiences, such as being selected to attend the Brinkley Aerospace work experience day, where I was able to learn more about aerospace engineering in a hands-on environment. Alongside this, I have been encouraged to push myself further within the STEM field, and my detachment has actively supported me by helping me find and attend more STEM-related courses and opportunities. This support has helped build my confidence and motivated me to continue developing my skills and interest in science and engineering.
My experience with science and STEM in the Army Cadet Force has influenced my future education and career plans. It has encouraged me to pursue aerospace engineering as a potential career path and has motivated me to choose more technical subjects such as physics, maths, and product design. These experiences have helped me realise where my interests and strengths lie and have given me a better direction for the future.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your STEM experiences as a female cadet? Yes, I believe that more female cadets should be encouraged to take part in STEM activities, as they provide valuable learning experiences and can be very eye-opening when considering future careers and work experience opportunities. Taking part in STEM within the ACF has helped me build confidence and develop practical skills that are useful beyond cadets.
I would say that, as a female cadet, it can be more challenging at first, as you may sometimes feel underestimated. However, once you show what you are capable of, demonstrate your knowledge, and show a willingness to learn, people become very supportive and accepting. Overall, my experience has been positive and has motivated me to continue pursuing STEM opportunities.
Find out more about becoming an Army Cadet or a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer on the ACF website.
