About the Association

SHAPA has been the UK's leading specialist Association for the solids handling and processing industry since its formation in 1981. Our support and assistance has allowed our members to maximise their profitability, whilst taking advantage of the many benefits afforded by the Association.


Mel Nader / Marketing Executive

Guttridge Ltd has been building relationships and providing Bulk Materials Handling solutions to customers globally, since 1962. We are a specialist manufacturer of grain handling equipment, such as conveyors, elevators and screw augers. I work developing the main Guttridge brand and two of Guttridge sub brands, Laserfab and Carier. I am responsible for all things Digital, including comprehensive Marketing, website development, Social Media, Photography, Graphic design, Market Research and Trade Shows.

How many years have you worked in the engineering industry?

I have been working in my current role for nearly 2 years, with 20 years’ experience in the Communication and Marketing field.

What do you love about the engineering industry?

What I enjoy the most is to see how the machines are made and how they work. I love learning about new technologies and to see how much we can all benefit from it! From the commercial photography point of view, big machines are very interesting to photograph and to promote.

Advice for a young woman looking at getting into any aspect of the engineering industry

You don’t have to feel that you are different for working in an industry that used to be predominantly a male industry. Disguised discrimination from a few cannot be ignored, but this is not common and should only motivate women of all ages and nationalities to demonstrate the value that we can bring to the industry. I feel lucky that I work for a company that respects women and we all hope to see more women in engineering in the future. Nowadays, after many female pioneers broke through the barriers, gender stereotypes are being put aside to give space to equality. Believe your power, never feel afraid to say NO and speak up!

Why you think women are important to all aspects of this industry?

Women are as important as men for any industry. We are knowledgeable, powerful and can provide the results required. The ideal in any industry would be that one where we don’t think about gender as being any disadvantage. It should be a natural way to see things. We are all people, with different ideas and qualities, and if all combine skills, together we will lead a business to the success, it doesn’t matter the gender.

Best Regards - Mel Nader / Marketing Executive

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