If you have a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering or Maths and would like to help inspire the next generation of engineers; then the STEM Ambassador Programme is for you.
STEM Ambassadors Programme - HUB NI
The STEM Ambassador Programme is a UK-wide initiative which aims to encourage young people to have an interest in studying and following a career in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). W5 is the contract holder (STEM HUB) for the programme in Northern Ireland and currently have a database of over 1300 professionals with STEM skills who have volunteered to promote STEM across local schools and youth groups etc. The STEM Ambassador Programme is aimed at inspiring young people to investigate STEM more closely and works at raising awareness of STEM subjects as well as careers and opportunities within STEM industries.
Ambassadors vary greatly in profile and diversity including young apprentices, under-graduates, senior managers, directors & professors - all have one thing in common, the desire to help inspire the next generation on how STEM is everywhere in the world around us and how studying STEM subjects can lead to exciting, diverse and dynamic careers locally.
W5 work to link STEM ambassadors with schools so they can act as positive role models to help inspire and engage young people about training and education, direct entry routes, career paths, job prospects and the high earning potential of STEM jobs.
STEM Ambassadors support local schools & youth groups in a number of ways for example:
- Supporting careers events
- Delivering a hands-on, practical STEM project with pupils
- Supporting Interview Skills Days
- Being interviewed over Skype as part of a school lesson
- Taking part in a Teacher/Ambassador networking event at a school
- Workplace site visits
The STEM programme strengthens relations between business, industry, academia, and schools. STEM positions ambassadors, with expert STEM skills, throughout schools and youth groups on a voluntary basis.
As well as the benefits for students and teachers, being a STEM Ambassador can also benefit you. As well as being an enjoyable thing to do, volunteering with young people can build your presentation skills and help you see your work from a different perspective. Depending on the way you engage with schools, it can also strengthen project management, strategic thinking and leadership skills. It is worth noting that engaging as a STEM Ambassador counts as a CPD activity.
How can I get involved?
To become a STEM Ambassador, register online at https://db.stemnet.org.uk and select the area of the UK where you will do most of your volunteering. You will then be emailed with the next steps.