GSPK Designs very own Electronic Design Engineer, Joseph Hodge, was invited to the University of York to give a talk on life after graduating in electronic engineering. His talk was given to a group of students who were invited by SWEY (Supporting Women in Engineering at York), a group set up to try and address the gender imbalance within STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). The talk was successful and invited insightful questions from soon-to-be graduates about starting their careers in electronics.

Joseph at York University giving his speech

Joseph at York University giving his speech to SWEY

Joseph has worked at GSPK Design for over two years working on projects including the writing of firmware for a high speed USB 3.0 camera and a turnkey assisted living product that was recently featured on the BBC TV show Dragons Den.

His love for electronics stems from growing up in the 1980’s, an exciting time to be a coder as the industry grew and grew with coding becoming more accessible in the average home. Having worked previously in computer sales Joseph decided it was time for a change and applied for a place on the University of York Electronic Engineering degree with Foundation access course, “I would highly recommend a foundation learning course as it is a great thing to get into, especially for a mature student,” he went on to receive a First Class Honours BEng degree in Electronic Engineering.

Looking for a new job in the industry was a relatively smooth process, having applied for jobs with different companies, Joseph finally found exactly the sort of company he wanted to work for, GSPK Design. “Working in a small and friendly team is perfect for me, I get to work on a variety of projects that require high levels of skill and creativity.”

Joseph working with Alex a student a university

Joseph working with Alex, an electronic engineering student at university.

The talk was inspiring for those looking at a career in electronics, Joseph proves that with hard work and determination turning your hobby into your job is possible no matter what background you’re from.