A new Generation STEM event has been added to Worcestershire’s school calendar, giving schoolgirls the opportunity to hear from inspiring women working across technology, digital and creative industries.
Hosted by Early Careers Worcestershire, part of Worcestershire County Council’s Skills & Employability Service, at DRPG in Hartlebury, the summer Generation STEM event welcomed Year 9 and 10 students from schools across Worcestershire for an evening of inspiration, employer engagement and career exploration.
Students heard from women working in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) roles, particularly within the digital and creative industries. Speakers included Jules Caswell from The Strategy Sessions, Jennifer Long from Ice Blue, Heather Horton from Ecru Box, Vicki Rucinski from Assure Technical, Sara Lyddy from DRPG and Stephanie Harris from Sanctuary.
Students also had the opportunity to meet employers and education providers including Assure Technical, QinetiQ, Kidderminster College, Radio Wyvern, Aspenify and the University of Worcester, gaining insight into the skills, qualifications and experiences needed to succeed in a range of industries.
Councillor Dan Boatright-Greene, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Education, SEND and Skills, said, “Generation STEM is a fantastic example of what can happen when schools, employers and educators come together to inspire young people.
“I’m really proud of the Early Careers Worcestershire team for creating opportunities like this, helping students discover careers they may never have considered and connecting them with people already working in those industries.
“Every young person in Worcestershire deserves the chance to explore the opportunities available to them, build their confidence and raise their aspirations. Events like Generation STEM are helping to make that happen.”
The event forms part of Worcestershire County Council’s wider commitment to inspire more young people, particularly girls, to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics by connecting them with employers, role models and real-world experiences through year-round initiatives such as Women in STEM Week, Primary STEM Challenge and Generation STEM.
Judy Gibbs, Head of Worcestershire County Council’s Skills & Employability Service, said, “Representation matters. When young women meet successful women working in technology, digital and creative industries, they can begin to see themselves in those careers too.
“Today’s speakers have shared honest experiences, valuable advice and inspiring stories that will stay with these students long after the event has finished.”
Generation STEM will return this winter with a second event focused on engineering and science careers, giving another group of young people the opportunity to meet employers, hear from industry professionals and explore future career pathways.
Find out more at the dedicated Skills for Worcestershire pages of the Worcestershire County Council website.