International Women’s Day Celebration our female cohort

International Women’s Day is a moment to recognise the women whose dedication, talent, and resilience drive innovation across our industry. At iDESo Group, we are proud to celebrate the inspiring women who strengthen our teams, support our customers, and contribute to our success.

Today, we spotlight two incredible colleagues who reflect the spirit and values of our business:

Tracey Smith, Procurement Coordinator, and
Beckie Cusack, Project & Service Coordinator.

Spotlight: Tracey Smith – Procurement Coordinator

40 Years of Commitment, Growth & Positive Energy – A Career That Has Evolved Through Four Decades

Tracey joined the company on 24 February 1986 after finishing college and completing work experience at Sheffield City Star. Starting in sales, she later progressed into procurement and operations, embracing every challenge with enthusiasm and resilience.

She even represented the company on the rounders team:

“I might not have done much batting, but I was the fastest by a mile, the company even got me football boots!”

A Milestone to Be Proud Of

“My 40-year anniversary. I’ve made so many memories here, not just through my accomplishments, but through the people I’ve met.”

Four decades of service is an extraordinary achievement that reflects Tracey’s loyalty, passion and contribution to our business.

What IWD Means to Tracey

“Engineering has always been male‑dominated. It’s nice to see more women join this field and enjoy it as I do.”

Tracey has watched the industry evolve and values the progress being made.

Motivation, Inspiration & Leadership

“No two days have been the same, even after 40 years. New projects and challenges keep the spark alive, and the people I work with always make me smile.”

Her greatest inspiration is her mother:

“She’s a strong, independent woman. Even at 87 she makes me dinner every Thursday, and we spend our weekends together, cinema, coach trips, or getting our nails done.”

Support & Workplace Culture

“The company has allowed me to grow at my own pace.”

Celebrating women, she says, is essential:

“It’s an opportunity to recognise women’s accomplishments and ensure they feel valued and supported.”

Looking Ahead

“I’m happy with my position, but I enjoy advising and supporting others.”

Her message for future generations of women in industry:

“Love like your life depended on it.”

Life Outside Work

Tracey values balance, wellbeing and joy:

• Wine and long weekends away
• Long dog walks for mental wellbeing
• Regular swimming
• Staying fit, healthy and positive

“Still living each day to its fullest with a positive attitude.”

Spotlight: Beckie Cusack – Project & Service Coordinator

A New Generation of Leadership, Drive & Customer Focus – A Career Journey Defined by Growth

Beckie joined Baldwin & Francis in October 2023. Starting her career as a senior technician “on the tools,” she transitioned into the role of Project & Service Coordinator, shifting from hands‑on engineering to planning, coordination, and customer-focused work.

“My role has drastically changed. I’ve evolved from working on the shopfloor into planning work and delivering customer-focused support.”

A Milestone to Be Proud Of

“When I joined the service team, I was tasked with improving capacity and increasing aftermarket income. With the team’s help, we doubled the previous month’s numbers and have consistently hit targets since.”

She is also proud of winning a peer-nominated leadership award at her previous company:

“It meant a lot because it came from the people I worked with.”

What IWD Means to Beckie

“Especially in this industry, it’s a great opportunity to show future generations that things have changed. Women are successful across all areas, not just the traditional admin roles.”

The Unique Strengths Women Bring to Industry

Beckie believes women bring perspective, empathy and innovation:

“Women and men approach problems differently, and that brings fresh solutions. I feel women also create a more nurturing environment. On a predominantly male shopfloor, women help spark conversations around wellbeing and make people feel more cared for.”

Barriers Faced — and Overcoming Them

“Early in my career I faced resistance from the older workforce who saw engineering as a traditionally male role. But after showing my willingness to learn, they realised there was no difference between me and other younger workers.”

What Motivates Beckie Each Day

“I enjoy a busy schedule and delivering a great experience for clients. It motivates me to ensure they receive quality service and when I can resolve issues, it’s really satisfying.”

The Women Who Inspire Her

“All women inspire me. Looking back at the progress women fought for and those still fighting for equality reminds me to challenge norms and make a difference.”

Support from Baldwin & Francis

“The company has supported me in transitioning into a new role by asking what they can do to help and offering ways for me to develop my knowledge.”

Improving Gender Equality

“I think companies should focus on making women’s experiences at work more comfortable. Women face challenges men don’t acknowledging this helps women feel more seen and heard.”

Future Ambitions & Long-Term Vision

“I hope to progress into senior management; my dream role is Head of Operations. It takes time, but I’m dedicated to learning as much as I can.”

Her legacy for future women:

“I hope women see that the industry has changed, they are welcome and encouraged, especially in hands-on roles like production.”

Balancing Work, Life & Wellbeing

Studying with the Open University means Beckie’s schedule is full:

“Balancing everything can be difficult, but allocating

Proud Achievements Outside of Work

“I’m a blood donor. Knowing I can help people in crisis or support medical research makes me proud, especially as my family members have needed blood in the past.”

Thank You, Tracey and Beckie.

All of female cohort at the iDESo Group embody the spirit of IWD: strength, resilience, leadership, and authenticity.

Their journeys remind us that progress is real, representation matters, and the future for women in engineering is brighter than ever.

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