The female boss of Didcot's gas-fired power plant gave schoolgirls an insight into what is still regarded as largely a man's world.
Nina Skorupska, station manager of Didcot B Power Station, told pupils at Didcot Girls' School's certificate evening how she grew up in Lancashire wanting to become an air hostess.
Mrs Skorupska said her mother had been an important influence on her life and persuaded her to aim higher than she might have done.
She studied astronomy and astrophysics at university, before working in a coal laboratory in the USA and gaining a doctorate.
Mrs Skorupska travelling widely, presenting papers.
She recalled taking advantage of career opportunities when they arose, "sometimes being apart from my husband to make the most of these chances".
After working with National Power in Swindon as an expert on coal, she specialised in gas power at Didcot.
Mrs Skorupska urged pupils to make the most of their opportunities.
Helen Cui was presented with the Barclays Bank Shield for academic achievement.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article