Lucy McKenzie
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme)
Give us a brief description of your background
My name is Lucy McKenzie, and I am from Chester, Cheshire. Growing up as a huge animal lover, I went on to study Zoology at university. However, as I went on to learn more about the pressures and challenges that biological diversity are under due to human activity, this pushed for me to aspire a career in mitigating environmental preservation through engineering, rather than retrospective conservation programmes.
I am now halfway through my masters in Environmental Engineering whilst working as MCS’s Technical Officer. My role entails being a part of the Special Projects Team where we implement potential new avenues for business development.
In my spare time I love hiking/walking with my dog, watching drama series and drinking Sauvignon Blanc.
Who/what inspires you?
My Grandpa has always been my inspiration, even from a young age. He is a retired GP and is well respected within the Redcar community for being an extremely talented doctor. He has always been one of my biggest supporters, especially when it comes to my academic and professional life. He has always encouraged me to work to my best ability to achieve results by guiding me through decision making.
At 91, he is still capable of maintaining his mammoth garden, teaching himself Latin and other additional academic courses, but most importantly, he’s able to utilise most social media platforms to keep in touch with his ever-extending family!
If I inspire and achieve to have an impact on the world like my Grandpa has, then I will have fulfilled a huge purpose in life!
What does the word leadership make you think of?
Empowerment, empathy, and resilience are all qualities I believe make a successful leader. To be able to guide and encourage a team, a leader will show where to look but not what to see.
How do you feel about taking part in the Future Leaders programme?
I feel privileged to have been enrolled onto the Future Leaders course by my employer. This has built my confidence as it means potential in me becoming a future leader has been recognised. I am therefore extremely grateful for the opportunity, and I believe I will gain huge benefits that I can then implement into my personal and professional life.
What do you think are the keys to a sustainable future?
I think unity is the biggest key to sustainability. By coming together to address and act upon the climate emergency through education, support, and policy development throughout the world, whilst encouraging our communities to adapt their everyday habits, will collectively result in a reduction in our carbon footprint.
