As a proud sponsor of SATRO’s upcoming STEMX Awards, I
settled down to write this blog post with warmth in my heart and a smile on my
face.
The mission of The STEMX Awards is to celebrate the wealth
of STEM skills demonstrated by young people in the south east. From apprenticeship successes to impactful
work experience placements, we have our own constellation of STEM stars right here
on our doorstep. Why wouldn’t you want
to celebrate that?!
In reality, and putting my inherent enthusiasm for STEM
aside, there are many reasons why The STEMX Awards are important. But which ones should I choose? As I pondered for a while and did a bit of
research my thoughts began to crystallise thanks to the Royal Academy of
Engineering’s report, The UK STEM
Education Landscape.
So here, in no particular order, are my top three reasons
why The STEMX Awards are so valuable...
Perception: Science, technology, engineering and
mathematics are part of our everyday lives and contribute to prosperous
societies and economies. The skills
developed through STEM fuel innovation; they are in demand now and will be in
the future; they launch and sustain careers that make a difference to the
world. By celebrating the contribution
of young people to this STEM-tastic mix, The Awards help influence public
perception, smash stereotypes and encourage engagement at a human level.
Pathways: The routes taken to achieve career success are
different from person to person. People
change disciplines and roles, take on a range of responsibilities as they
evolve and explore new experiences. SATRO’s
STEMX Awards demonstrate this perfectly by taking a holistic view of STEM and showcasing
a plethora of pathways to dynamic, fulfilling STEM careers. Real people; real stories; real life.
Progression: The Awards bring together young people
setting off on their STEM adventures and people in STEM-based or STEM-related
professions. All of them are using skills
linked to science, technology, engineering and mathematics in a variety of ways
to develop rewarding careers. This sends
out a message to communities far and wide; whoever you are, whatever your
aspirations, STEM subjects and careers enable progression into an amazing array
of opportunities.
Recognising and celebrating our STEM talent, as well as
those who support them, is valuable and worthwhile. SATRO’s STEMX Awards give
us the chance to highlight their achievements and raise awareness at the same
time. Plus we get to have some fun too
of course.
So as I bring this blog post to a close, the smile on my
face is wider and the warmth in my heart is greater. Yes, it truly is an inspiring place to be;
living amongst the stars.
By Dr Elaine Hickmott, Development Director, EH Enterprises
