Aecom Newcastle Helping Forge A New Path In Stem Careers For The Next Generation.
Aecom Newcastle Helping Forge A New Path In Stem Careers For The Next Generation.
AECOM Newcastle have demonstrated a huge commitment to nurturing the future of STEM over the years, first hosting Research Placement students in 2021/22, and again in 2022/23 and 2023/24.
Their impressive team of STEM Ambassadors dedicates time, resources, and passion to inspire and guide young talent in their local community.
AECOM, a globally renowned infrastructure consulting firm, provide professional technical services in engineering, design, planning, and management.
With a presence in over 150 countries, AECOM works on some of the world's most complex and impactful projects, striving to create sustainable and innovative solutions that improve the quality of life for communities worldwide.
Their Newcastle office is no exception, leading the charge in encouraging and guiding the next generation to take up careers in engineering and innovation.
AECOM is invested in raising awareness about the careers available within STEM and closing the skills gap that we may be faced with if we do not do something to get young people into the industries that are crying out for new talent.
That’s where STEM Ambassadors come in. A STEM Ambassador is someone who works within STEM industries that volunteers their time to engage with students and the wider community to promote STEM subjects and careers.
This can be delivering presentations to students, hosting site visits, recording re-usable, informative videos about processes, site visits, workshops and so much more, bringing real-world insights and experiences to their outreach activities.
Having companies like AECOM actively participate in the STEM Ambassador programmes is crucial.
Through showcasing real-world applications of STEM, ambassadors spark interest and excitement in students, encouraging them to consider careers in these fields, as well as explaining how to get there.
Engaging with students early helps bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs, ensuring a future workforce that is well-prepared and skilled.
Ambassadors also play a vital role in promoting diversity within STEM careers, making these fields more accessible and appealing to underrepresented groups. By participating in local outreach, companies strengthen their ties with the community, demonstrating corporate responsibility and fostering a culture of giving back.
David Olive, Jack Massey, and Jo Gledhill at AECOM Newcastle, are currently hosting a female Year 12 student, Sajida, for a Nuffield Research Placement in engineering, a programme run in the North East by STEM Learning, delivered by RTC North’s STEM Team.
This initiative is part of their broader strategy to build an inclusive future, close the gender gap, and make engineering a career accessible to all, a cause that is is particularly close to the heart of Nuffield Programme Manager, Sally Wilkinson.
With a previous career in Aeronautical and Marine Engineering spanning two decades, Sally transitioned into STEM Outreach to serve as a visible role model, inspiring young women to consider a future in this and other fields where women are underrepresented.
Sally commented, “AECOM are providing an invaluable opportunity for hands-on learning and real-world insight for Sajida and other students. It’s so inspiring to see a company so invested in the development of tomorrow's innovators.”
AECOM Newcastle’s dedication to STEM outreach and their active involvement in the STEM Ambassador & Nuffield programme is testament to their commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers and scientists and the bright future of our industries.
By providing students with invaluable experiences and mentorship, they are helping to shape a diverse and skilled workforce for the future. Their efforts not only benefit the students but also contribute to the broader goal of creating a more inclusive and innovative landscape
David Olive quote: “This year marks our 3rd year of running the placement program at the Newcastle office, and we’re thrilled to see the positive impact it has on students. Thank you kindly for your support, we hope Sajida has an enriching work experience over her 2 weeks at AECOM”