Life at Stirling Dynamics: Project Management

Stirling Dynamics is renowned for its engineering excellence, but this is only part of the picture of delivering a world class service to our customers. To fully support our clients in meeting their goals, we have a team of talented project managers who are there to make sure every customer’s experience is second to none, from start to finish.

Project co-ordinator Kate Humphreys, who joined the team in 2025, talked to us about her experience working at Stirling Dynamics.

“Stirling Dynamics occupies quite a niche place in the aerospace and marine industries so you’re always working on something very special.”

What attracted you to the role?

The variety of work and the challenge. I was working in previous roles that had a strong project management element, but when I saw the opportunity at Stirling Dynamics to move into a full project management role, I was keen to develop my career in this area.

Engineering and especially aerospace engineering is very complicated and can be challenging, but I have enjoyed the challenge! Stirling Dynamics occupies quite a niche place in the aerospace and marine industries so you’re always working on something very special. Sometimes I’m working on things that I just never knew existed!

The projects are really varied, so I never get bored! Since I joined in September 2025, I’ve worked on both civil and military projects, ranging from engineering change requests to simulation control design and had the chance to work with many of our engineering specialists across modelling & simulation, mechanical design and production. I have also been given the opportunity to work closely with our Design Organisation in Germany.

We have a set of processes and standards we need to work to, but every project still has its unique set of requirements, and we also try to adapt our approach for each customer so they have the visibility and control they need for that project that works for their business.

What does a typical day look like for you?

It really varies. But, certainly every day involves co-ordinating lots of different teams, producing reports and keeping close control of budgets. There’s a lot of reporting and communication—that’s the backbone of project management. You need to flag risks early and keep in constant communication with the head of programmes, directors, and engineering teams. There are lots of small teams, and it’s my job to coordinate them all. 

Recently, I’ve been working on several bids, which is exciting because we’re developing concepts and budgets for products that don’t exist yet. I’ve also been given the opportunity to work with our fantastic team in Germany and on civil engineering and design projects.

What’s it like working at Stirling Dynamics?

The people have been fantastic. Coming from outside engineering, I was definitely thrown in at the deep end, but everyone—from fellow project managers to engineers and line managers—has been incredibly supportive. Our engineers are always happy to explain why certain processes exist or walk me through our products, so I can see how my work fits into the bigger picture, which has really helped build my understanding.

It’s also the small things that make a difference. When I joined, my desk was ready with a “Welcome to Stirling” card, and that set the tone. Everyone has been genuinely friendly and welcoming.

I’m one of around ten people in the project management team, supporting a wide range of customers. It’s a busy environment with lots of plates spinning, but it keeps things interesting.

Our customer base is incredibly varied. One day I might be speaking to someone in California, the next joining a call with Singapore. I love learning about different working cultures and adapting to different customer styles across projects. There are also some great opportunities for travel—some PMs have been to Japan and North America—so I hope to experience that too one day.

I’m learning from people with so many different backgrounds and experiences, and that’s been incredibly rewarding. 

What do you think it takes to be a successful project manager at Stirling Dynamics?

Good coordination, strong communication, and a real sense of ownership. You need to treat the project like it’s yours—be willing to challenge things (positively), be organised, and manage your time well. 

Being personable is important too. You’re the main point of contact, so you need to make yourself approachable so people feel comfortable raising issues. You also need to feel comfortable escalating risks when necessary. 

What’s the most exciting thing you’ve worked on recently?  

I’ve been involved in a new aircraft development project, which has been incredibly interesting, and have had the chance to work on a few internal development projects. Managing non-engineering projects has also been a challenge but fun. I also enjoy improving processes. With the German team, I’ve been introducing JIRA to help streamline their supply chain focused work which has been really interesting and enjoyable.

View our latest Project Management vacancies:

Senior Project Manager

Principal Project Manager

Project & Supply Chain Manager role - Germany