Bournemouth & Poole College welcomed a host of industry experts to talk at its annual Women in STEM event.
The event, which has taken place for the past three years, was held with the aim of helping to inspire young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). More than 70 careers advisers, teachers and educational professionals from schools and organisations across Dorset attended the event held at the College’s STEM centre at the North Road site in Poole on Wednesday 20 June, which took place in partnership with Solent University. Charlotte Thurston, head of schools engagement at the charity Education and Employers, was the keynote speaker who spoke about the future of women working in STEM roles.
Other speakers included Lance Corporal Audrene Williams of the Royal Engineers regiment, who is part of the Armed Forces Diversity Engagement Team, who spoke on the subject of ‘Are you really a tank driver?’, and Helen Hadlington from the Women’s Engineering Society gave a talk titled ‘Where are all the female engineers?’
A number of current and past Bournemouth & Poole College students also gave a talk at the event, including Level 3 computing student Georga Turner, who hosted a Q and A with Leila Willingham, founder of Digipigz and account executive of Liz Lean PR, about representing ‘Generation Z’.
Louise Garner, director of learning for applied science and care at Bournemouth & Poole College, said: “We are pleased to see such a great turn out at the event, which shows that it is high on the agenda for many to help us encourage young women to consider a career in STEM.
“We had some fantastic and refreshing talks from a varied programme of speakers who covered just a few of the careers that women can embark on, and we are proud to do everything we can to ensure all young people enjoy equal opportunities.”
Charlotte Thurston, head of schools engagement at the charity Education and Employers, added: “Our aim is to provide young people with the inspiration and motivation they need to achieve their potential. We do this through ensuring every school and college has an effective partnership with employers.
“At Bournemouth & Poole College, it is clear that they make it a priority for all students to feel supported in their career options, and that they receive in-depth information about all the courses available to study regardless of gender.”
Please visit thecollege.co.uk/STEM for more information on careers in STEM at the College.