Sue Bird (engineer) facts for kids
Susan Bird is a British acoustic engineer. She helps make sure sounds are just right, whether it's in buildings or for airplanes! She was also a leader for the Women's Engineering Society (WES) for several years.
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What is an Acoustic Engineer?
An acoustic engineer is like a sound detective! They study how sound travels and how it affects people. They work to make sure places aren't too noisy, or that sounds are clear and pleasant. For example, they might design concert halls so the music sounds amazing, or make sure a building blocks out loud street noise.
Sue Bird's Journey in Engineering
Early Life and Studies
Sue Bird studied something called Applied Physics at Coventry Polytechnic. This field combines physics with real-world problems, which was perfect for her future work with sound.
Working with Aircraft
After her studies, Sue started her career at the British Aircraft Corporation. She worked as an acoustic engineer on famous airplanes like the Concorde. The Concorde was a super-fast passenger jet, and Sue helped make sure its sound was managed properly. She also worked on other aircraft, making sure they weren't too loud for people inside or outside.
Helping with City Sounds
Later, Sue joined the Scientific Branch of the Greater London Council (GLC). Here, she became an acoustic consultant. Her main job was to help with sounds in buildings. She made sure that buildings were designed to control noise, which is important for places like schools, hospitals, and homes.
Starting Her Own Company
When the GLC closed in 1986, Sue decided to start her own company called Bird Acoustics. She was joined by her husband, who was also an acoustic engineer, in 1993. Their company helped people and businesses with sound and noise control problems. She worked there until she retired in 2008. Sue also earned a special degree, an MSc in Applied Acoustics, in 2003.
Leading in Engineering
Sue Bird is a Chartered Engineer, which means she has reached a high level of skill and experience in engineering. She is also a Fellow of the Institute of Acoustics, showing her deep knowledge in sound engineering. She has even been the chair and president of the Association of Noise Consultants.
In 1993, Sue was part of a group that looked into why there weren't more women in science, technology, and engineering. This group wrote an important report called 'The Rising Tide'.
Sue also played a big part in starting the International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists (INWES) in 2002. This group connects women engineers and scientists from all over the world. Sue was even the president of INWES from 2008 to 2011.
Awards and Recognition
Sue Bird has received special awards for her amazing work:
- In 2003, she was given the Isabel Hardwich Medal by the Women's Engineering Society. This medal honors women who have made a big difference in engineering.
- In 2016, she was awarded an MBE. This is a special honor from the British government for her services to women in engineering. It recognized her efforts to encourage and support women in this field.
