Winterton was admitted to the drawing office at GWR in 1915 and two years later was appointed draughtswoman, a skilled technical role within the engineering field.

While working at GWR, she enrolled at University College, Reading where she passed examinations in machine construction and drawing, electricity and magnetism, applied mechanics, general physics and mathematics.

[1] However, after her husband died (on 11 October 1939 at the Royal Berkshire Hospital) leaving her a widow with two small children to support, Elsie Deacon rejoined the GWR Signal Department in Reading, remaining in employment there as a draughtswoman until retiring in 1962 aged 65.

In the register of her husband's will, Elsie Deacon was living at 40 Highmoor Road, Reading and her occupation is listed as unpaid domestic duties.

The National Probate Calendar states that Elsie Louisa Deacon of Warren House, St Peters Av, Caversham, Reading had a wealth at death of £40,000.