Sarah Chapman is a technical leader at global science company 3M.
Having always taken active responsibility in encouraging young people into STEM careers, Sarah is a passionate and longstanding advocate for diverse representation in the sector. Alongside her day job, she volunteers as Board Vice Chair at Farnborough College of Technology and is on the steering committee of 3M’s EMEA Technical Women’s Leadership Forum and STEM Champion for 3M North Europe.
How did you come to your current role? Was it planned?
My current role at 3M is as a Senior Manager, working in EMEA product compliance. I’m also the official regional spokesperson for 3M’s science advocacy in North Europe, working to share 3M’s passion for science and the communication of our research. I’ve been at 3M now for almost 20 years, working across a variety of different roles. Prior to that, I had a few temporary jobs, including interning in an x-ray crystallography department where I was manually uploading data to a computer system – how times have changed. I eventually applied to 3M because they had lots of technical roles outside the laboratory, and I found the application of STEM subjects to a variety of real-world problems interesting.
It wasn’t always a career in STEM I had my heart set on, though. Growing up I had a keen interest in a ballet career—everyone said I was born to dance. But no one ever told me I was a natural scientist or engineer. After an injury and the guidance of an inspiring teacher, my direction shifted toward the sciences. In my final year, I did a computational project and, at first, I worried that roles in science would be more lab coats than computers – how wrong I was!
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you pursue your current expertise?
As a Senior Manager in product compliance, my day-to-day consists of a lot of problem solving and I find my science background very helpful for that. My team are responsible for ensuring products have the appropriate regulatory information and risk assessments to be placed on the market in countries across Europe, Middle East, and Africa. Through experience in my previous roles, I knew that this was something I wanted to specialise in because I love the interface between people and technology and, in my current role, I am contributing to safer, more sustainable solutions. Working with the people who are world-class technical experts in areas such as chemical legislation, product application and sustainable materials, and on projects such as building our Customer Innovation Centre, has been a fantastic experience for me because it is so varied – every day is different.
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
My own personal role models at a young age were a couple of inspirational teachers who pushed me on the path to a career in STEM. My Dad is also a role model because he followed a path that was not normally accessible to someone of his background and overcame a lot of obstacles to become one of the most successful professionals in his field.
I originally studied languages and drama but heard Miss Morris made biology one of the most fun classes so switched to that – and then changed my other subjects to chemistry and maths – more to prove I could do something different than for any sensible reason. My chemistry teacher told us she used to work for a fruit cordial company, using science to ensure the drink flavour was consistent, even though the fruit harvest varied. This was a mind-blowing discovery for me – science related to everyday life! That is when I knew I wanted to make a career in STEM.
My vision is for every woman and young person considering or navigating a STEM career to have both stars and streetlights guiding their path. The stars are those brilliant individuals who break glass ceilings and defy stereotypes, serving as distant yet inspiring figures to aspire to. Closer to home are the streetlights: the friends, family, teachers, mentors, and volunteers who make science and technology relatable through everyday stories. These streetlights ignite a lasting spark in young minds, offering guidance and support, and lighting the way to a future in STEM.
What are you most proud of in your career, so far?
I took on the challenge of project managing the design and construction of 3M’s multi-million-pound customer innovation centre in Bracknell. Despite having no formal project management qualifications, I was driven by my passion for technical communication, storytelling, and innovation. In hindsight, I understand why I was chosen for the role and am glad I pushed myself beyond my comfort zone. Project management tools can be learned, and with a strong network and high motivation, you can quickly acquire the necessary knowledge.
Since its opening, the customer innovation centre has hosted over 20,000 visitors, consistently creating “wow” moments for everyone from customers to local school students. I am immensely proud of this achievement.
What does an average workday look like for you?
Every day is different. My colleagues are located all over the world, so we connect remotely every day. I work from home most days but enjoy going into the office once a week or when we have customer visits or events.
As a technical manager I must be able to quickly understand technical issues that get escalated – but I am usually not the expert and love learning from those that are. I like looking for ways to connect people and systems to solve problems.
Are there any specific skills or traits that you notice companies look for when you’re searching for roles in your field?
Communication, collaboration, and curiosity
Has anyone ever tried to stop you from learning and developing in your professional life, or have you found the tech sector, and STEM industries broadly, supportive?
Mostly very supportive – 3M is rightly proud of its reputation for leadership in equity, diversity and inclusion which is one reason I have had such a successful career here – from flexible working policies (and crucially the culture to affect them) to peer support such as our Women’s Leadership Forum, and mentoring programs, there has always been a lot of support available. That said, I have often been the only women in the room during my career – especially when working in industry with customers and suppliers – so we have a long way to go, and women need to see STEM role models like them.
What kind of challenges have you faced over the course of your career, and how did you overcome them?
I’ve often struggled with Imposter Syndrome, questioning whether I truly deserved my success, especially when stepping into new roles or industries. The #IamRemarkable initiative tackles the cultural and gender modesty norms that prevent many from acknowledging their achievements, a barrier that disproportionately affects underrepresented groups. In my role as a manager, I see countless technical experts working tirelessly, mistakenly believing their hard work alone will earn them recognition. I’ve come to understand that visibility, sponsorship, and building a strong profile are vital for career growth. As an #IamRemarkable facilitator, I now empower others to conquer these limiting beliefs and speak boldly about their accomplishments. Together, we can defy societal norms and shine a spotlight on the extraordinary work of women in tech.
What advice would you give other women wanting to reach their career goals in a STEM field?
STEM fields offer a vast array of fascinating and rewarding jobs. It’s more crucial to know what you love and what doesn’t interest you than to have a rigid career plan. Roles, disciplines, and markets are always evolving. Being adaptable, developing transferable skills, and continuously learning are the keys to success. I’ve held various technical roles, from technical service engineer to regulatory specialist to project manager, most of which I discovered only when I applied for them. I’m passionate about the idea that STEM skills can be a unique way to pursue your passions. If you love music, for example, consider the tech side of the industry—sound engineering, data analysis, studio technician roles, and more. STEM opens doors to endless possibilities.
What would be your advice to businesses keen to support the next generation, girls in particular, looking to pursue a STEM career?
Promoting gender equality is essential in every field, but it’s especially critical in STEM, where diverse perspectives fuel innovation and growth. To attract and retain women in these sectors, we must address workplace biases and culture. By establishing family-friendly policies and offering flexible working arrangements, we can create an inclusive environment that supports all employees, particularly parents, and fosters greater diversity and progress.
