“If there’s something you want, go for it. Even if you’re scared. Do it scared, if you have to.”
Background and industry experience
Charlotte joined MEC in September 2024. She completed a BSc in Music Technology in Music & Sound at Staffordshire University, before studying a Master’s in Audio Engineering at the University of Derby. She didn’t think she’d end up in Acoustics, as she was going for a more live-sound and music background. However, Charlotte did study some acoustics modules in both degrees, and it still involves sound, so it isn’t that far off! Charlotte is motivated to build her existing expertise to establish a career in acoustics.
Charlotte is an Associate Member of the Institute of Acoustics (AMIOA). She is aiming to progress further into IOA membership during her career, starting with full membership (MIOA). Other qualifications include: L-Acoustics ‘Introduction to Live Sound’, Meyer Sound ‘Portable System Deployment & Low Frequency Control’, and CITB ‘HS&E Test for Managers and Professionals’ (CSCS Card).
Charlotte completes projects for Residential and Commercial developments. Outside of work, she does the Noise Monitoring at Leeds Festival every year. She has done this since 2023.
In her spare time, Charlotte is the sound engineer for her partner’s band ‘Crosshair’ most evenings at the weekend. She also enjoys going to concerts, listening to music, scrapbooking, and spending time with friends/family.
About me
What is your favourite holiday destination?
I’d love to go to Iceland and see the Northern Lights.
What is your favourite film?
Project Hail Mary
What is your favourite thing to do at the weekend?
Go to concerts
What is your favourite sport to follow?
I don’t really follow any sports, but I occasionally go to indie wrestling shows to watch my friends.
If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Spaghetti Bolognese
Women in Engineering
Meet Charlotte, MEC’s Acoustic Consultant, who brings a unique blend of music and sound engineering expertise to her role. After completing a BSc in Music & Sound Technology at Staffordshire University, Charlotte went on to study for a Master’s in Audio Engineering at the University of Derby. This solid foundation in sound and acoustics led her to join MEC as a Graduate Acoustic Consultant in September 2024, where she is already making her mark in the field of acoustic consulting.
Tell us a little about your role.
As an Acoustic Consultant, I am responsible for conducting noise surveys and modeling noise maps using CadnaA to assess the distribution of noise across a site. I then recommend the most effective mitigation measures to ensure compliance with noise regulations.
This may involve advising developers on acoustic treatments, adjusting building facades, or reorienting dwellings. My role is crucial in helping people live and work in spaces that are comfortable and free from disruptive noise issues.
What first inspired you to do engineering?
I was inspired to do Acoustics as it is a great way to combine my interests in sound with practical applications, which makes a real difference to how to people live and work, allows me to experience different projects, meet all kinds of people and travel a lot.
How have you found being a female engineer working at MEC?
I feel very lucky to be in this field and I hope to see more and more women join the field. I feel valued and appreciated in my role, and I am treated with fairness and respect.
What’s been the most challenging part about being a female engineer so far?
I’m not sure if there’s been any particular challenges based on my gender, but I do know it’s something lots of women face in the industry and we should promote better equality to women in engineering.
Have your views on gender changed in the workplace since entering engineering?
I don’t think anything has changed, as I have always held the opinion that anyone can achieve what they put their mind to regardless of their gender and all should be treated equally.
Would you encourage other women to consider roles in engineering?
I would definitely encourage other women to consider engineering roles. You can achieve anything you set your mind to, regardless of your gender. It’s important for more women to join this sector and challenge the outdated notion that engineering is traditionally a “man’s job.”
What’s ahead for your career plans?
I want to progress in my role, become competent in other types of noise assessments and eventually specialise in building acoustics. My dream is to do building acoustics for music venues
Contact: charlotte.pollock@m-ec.co.uk