Author: The Greenpower Team
In celebration of International Women's Day, we spoke to Greenpower trustee Nash Vracas. Not only did she start out as a Greenpower participant, but she is now an aerodynamicist because of the introduction to her career path doing the Greenpower Challenge. We are thrilled to have her as a part of the team!
How long have you been involved in the Greenpower challenge?
I've been involved for the last 20 years. First as a spectator, then a competitor, then a volunteer and now I'm a trustee. I've loved every minute of it and it is as exciting as the first time I saw it!
From a Greenpower competitor in 2008 to an aerodynamicist and Trustee in 2019!
How did you come to be a trustee? Has your involvement evolved over time?
After volunteering for several years, I was approached by the previous CEO and asked if I would consider being a trustee. I didn't even hesitate to say yes. I love Greenpower and what it stands for. It has helped me in both my career (encouraged me to go into STEM!) but also has introduced me to so many friends! I definitely would not be where I am today without them and I really wanted to give back. I'm very honoured to be part of the organisation and to help decide how it is going to grow.
What do you do outside of Greenpower?
Professionally I am an aerodynamicist, but I don't just do that! I also tell people I work for Greenpower and in my spare time do my job! I also love sport and dabble in photography.
What does the Greenpower challenge mean to you?
Everything. It's about innovation, teamwork and problem solving, just to name a few. I've never won an award whilst competing at Greenpower, but it's so much more than that. It gives people a buzz for an industry that is incredible once you get your teeth stuck into it.
What’s the best thing about being involved in the Greenpower challenge?
The people. We have what we've coined the 'Greenpower Family' and it is so true. Once you become part of Greenpower you become part of this amazing network and the enthusiasm is infectious.
Why should people get involved in the Greenpower challenge?
There is nothing else out there like it. The main aim is to encourage children into STEM, but you get so much more out of it. You learn key core skills and long-term engagement. Going into industry later in life you will be faced with problems that can't be solved overnight. We have success stories from Greenpower that show they are more adaptable to solving what looks like an impossibility and just never giving up. These skills don't just apply to STEM, they apply everywhere. It's also seriously good fun!
