Next up in our blog series of incredible women is Dee Mathieson, Senior VP Linac Solutions and MD Elekta Ltd who shares her inspiring journey with us.
These blogs are part of our Girls Can campaign which you can support by donating to our Big Give appeal. Every donation will be doubled until mid-day on 17 October.
When I finished school, I had no clear idea of what I wanted to do with my life.
My mother, however, was keen that I choose something constructive. She gave me two options: Physiotherapy or Radiotherapy. My decision came down to a somewhat superficial factor — Radiotherapy was based at Guy’s Hospital in London, which had fantastic sports and social facilities. Looking back, it was perhaps a shallow way to choose a career, but it was absolutely the right one.
After some time working in clinical radiotherapy, I realised that I wanted to see how we could improve the accuracy and efficiency of the machines used for treating patients. So, while still working full-time, I decided to take a part-time degree in Physics.
It was a gruelling experience — I came close to quitting more than once. But with encouragement from my boss and sheer determination, I stuck with it. That decision changed the trajectory of my career.
After completing my degree, I moved into medical physics, where I worked directly with the technology behind radiation therapy. This opened the door to a new world for me, blending my clinical background with a deep understanding of the technology.
My unique combination of skills led me to Philips Radiotherapy, (which became Elekta) where I was given opportunities to move into executive roles. At Elekta, I was part of a major corporate restructuring that required everyone, including me, to reapply for their jobs.
It was a turning point in my career — I applied for several positions, received a promotion, and eventually took on the role of Head of Product Management. My work here allowed me to influence the development of technologies that have improved the lives of countless cancer patients.
Leading the team that delivered the first system for Image Guided Radiotherapy was a particular highlight. Knowing that the technology we developed would optimise cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes gave me immense pride and fulfilment.
But my journey wasn’t without its challenges.
Working in a heavily male-dominated field in the late 1980s was an eye-opener. The NHS, where I started, was fairly equitable in terms of gender, but the private sector was different.
I had to work twice as hard to earn credibility as a woman in engineering. I went out of my way to prove myself — not just by teaching engineers about the machines, but by physically being part of the installation teams in hospitals and validating new technologies.
It was exhausting, but necessary. The challenges I faced made me even more determined and they built up a resilience I still draw on today. Thankfully, I think things are a lot better for women entering engineering now.
You have to actively look for opportunities.
One of the key lessons I’ve learned over the years is that opportunities don’t always present themselves neatly wrapped with a bow. Too often, people wait for the “right moment” or the “right chance,” and those moments never come.
That’s why I always tell young women — or anyone looking for inspiration — to grab hold of opportunities, even if they seem intimidating. Yes, it’s risky, and yes, there will be setbacks. But those challenges are what shape you.
I have had many setbacks throughout my career, from nearly giving up on my Physics degree to navigating corporate politics and glass ceilings. But each time, I reminded myself that “this too shall pass,” and that mindset has kept me moving forward.
I’ve seen firsthand how empowering girls and young women can transform not just their lives, but entire industries.
I’m proud of the work I’ve done to advance cancer treatment technology, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to learn, grow, and lead. Now, I want to ensure that girls everywhere have those same chances. Imagine what they could achieve with the right support.
I believe passionately in giving young girls the confidence and opportunities they need to build their own paths — whether that’s in science, engineering, business, or any field they’re passionate about.
The Girls Can appeal is now open, and for one week only your donation will be doubled.
If Dee’s story resonates with you, if you believe in the potential of young women to change the world, please donate today. Together, we can empower the next generation of girls to seize opportunities, overcome obstacles, and step confidently into their futures.