Passionate speakers from organisations such as National Air Traffic Services (NATS) and Cobham plc came together to inspire and educate young women of the career options available to them in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The Bournemouth & Poole College hosted a free to attend event in association with Southampton Solent University, whereby local employers and sector specific experts challenged stereotypes by raising awareness of what women can achieve in STEM.
Attendees had the opportunity to listen to a number of talks including Becky Tinsley from Office of National Statistics, and Dr Susan Matthews, science lecturer of medicinal chemistry at the University of East Anglia.
Exhibitors such as Superior Seals, The Women’s Engineering Society, BAE Systems, Soroptimist International, Ultra Electronics, Eluceo, Bournemouth University and the University of Portsmouth were also present on the day to offer career advice and guidance.
Diane Grannell, Principal of The Bournemouth & Poole College said: ‘‘It is fantastic to see so many young women given the opportunity to discover all the different STEM career paths available to them. At the college we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of courses to anyone with the desire to learn, and work with students to build their confidence so they can pursue their chosen career and achieve their goals. ’’
Sylvianne Lambert-Hutchinson, lecturer of advanced technologies at The Bournemouth & Poole College added: ‘‘It is very important to encourage girls to look into careers involving coding and design as Bournemouth and Poole is the place to be when it comes to specialising in these subjects.’’
If you would like to find out more information about a career in STEM, The College is holding an open event on Wednesday June 15 from 4pm. Please visit thecollege.co.uk/open.