Recently I have been pondering the subject of leadership
and role models. When the SATRO team
invited me to write a blog post supporting our celebration of Ada Lovelace in
December I immediately knew my theme; role models and the part they play in
innovation and encouraging future generations.
To explore this further let’s begin with two
definitions:
Of all the potential links between role models and
innovation, the one that resonates most strongly for me is inspiration; something or someone that stimulates the mind and can
foster feelings of confidence and encouragement. All of which help provide a fertile ground
for innovation.
Sharing stories, explaining experiences and
interacting with others provide the insights, spark the ideas and bring the
human dimension needed to fuel creativity and the desire to make a difference. Both of which are necessary to bring about
innovation. This is particularly
important in STEM. Science, technology,
engineering and maths are part of our lives every day but not everyone
appreciates or understands their contribution to society and the economy. Therefore, we need role models who help raise
awareness, showcase innovation in action and present STEM in a real world
context. And the best people to do
this? STEM professionals and their real
life experiences.
In The
Spotlight. Ready Or Not!
Like most people, scientists and engineers don’t wake
up in the morning and declare, “Today, I am going to be a role model”. It is a status bestowed upon us by others who
see us as a positive example to be emulated.
This means it can happen at any time with any person. Therefore, as STEM professionals and leaders
we need to recognise the influence our behaviours and values have on
others. As well as embracing the fact
that we have the chance to inspire those around us.
A great example of this came from one of my
clients; a scientist and director in the environmental sector. During our work together she learnt that she
was viewed as a role model by other females in the company who were pleased to
see a woman on the Board. She told me, ”When I learnt I was viewed as a role
model it was an amazing revelation to me, and made me even more determined to communicate
successfully and be a positive example”.
A
Stereotype-free Zone
Finally, there is an assumption that role models
are people older and more experienced than us.
This is not necessarily the case.
Inspiration doesn’t have such a narrow outlook. Personally, I continue to be inspired by the
young people who I meet through working with SATRO. Their ideas and fresh perspectives on the
world add a new dimension to my own view; something I cannot achieve
alone. Plus meeting them makes me strive
to be even better myself. If by chance
they see me as an example, I certainly don’t want to let them down!
Regardless of age, background, experience and
aspirations, we all have the ability to inspire others to be their best, to
innovate and to make a difference. It’s
a gift and it’s powerful. How are you
going to share your gift today?
by Dr Elaine Hickmott, Development Director and
founder, EH Enterprises
If you would like to find out more information and/or book tickets for the Ada Lovelace Evening in aid of SATRO, follow this link. Alternatively, call Guildford Tourist Information on 01483 444334
