Where careers STEM from..
Youngsters set to be inspired by special engineering open day
TOMORROW is Engineering Open House Day, which is aimed at helping young people and their parents understand what it’s like to work as an engineer.
A wide variety of organisations will be providing behind-the-scenes access to demonstrate the benefits of working in this industry.
Here, we take a look at why a STEM career could be right for you and where you can find a local event.
What exactly is a STEM career?
STEM careers are jobs in the areas of science, technology, engineering and maths – and are crucial to a number of industries.
You could work as an engineer, lab assistant, architect, web designer, accountant or pharmacist.
The possibilities are endless for those with an interest in STEMrelated subjects and there are roles to suit all skill levels and personalties.
Young people with STEM qualifications are in demand and have good, long-term career prospects.
The UK faces a nationwide skills shortage in this area – 203,000 people with engineering skills will be required each year to meet demand through to 2024.
However, it is estimated that there will be an annual shortfall of 59,000 engineers and technicians to fill these roles, according to the latest Engineering UK report.
Why choose a STEM career?
A study carried out by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) found those who have pursued STEM in their education or career earn more.
They also get on the property ladder quicker and save more than those who haven’t pursued STEM subjects. The research showed that 34 per cent of those who studied or worked in STEM industries earned between £41,000 to £100,000 per annum, compared with just seven per cent of non-STEM workers.
More than four times as many workers with a STEM background 51.5 per cent started their careers with a salary of over £21,000, compared with only 11.3 per cent of those in non-technical careers.
And 73 per cent of the STEM respondents owned a property, compared with 52 per cent of the non-STEM contingent.
STEM workers were also more likely to save money, with 62 per cent being able to save 10-20 per cent of each month’s salary, compared with 75 per cent of nonSTEM workers being able to save between zero-10 per cent of theirs.
Where can I learn more?
The fourth annual Engineering Open House Day takes place tomorrow, August 3, and is co-ordinated by the IET.
More than 30 UK companies and organisations will be opening their doors to parents and children to learn about engineering.
There will be a series of talks, tours and demonstrations, with the aim of the events to inspire young people and their parents to consider engineering as a rewarding, diverse and creative career.
IET chief executive Nigel Fine said: “Studying STEM subjects has many benefits – from higher earnings to greater job satisfaction.
“Along with the nationwide skills shortage and the Government’s focus on the Year of Engineering, there’s never been a better reason to get excited about a career in STEM.
“Engineering Open House Day is a great example of how the industry can work together to showcase the range of careers available to young people.
“We hope this day not only inspires young people to learn more about the challenging and diverse careers available in engineering, but that it enlightens parents about the sector, too.”
Where can I find Scottish events?
STIRLING: Three workshops will be taking place from noon at the Engine Shed in Stirling, where you can learn more about how traditional materials have been used in modern ways to bring the existing structure back to life.
There will also be building tours and Lego construction sessions.
EDINBURGH: Head along to Edinburgh’s UK Astronomy Technology Centre for a special behind-the-scenes look at life as an engineer.
Meet engineers who work alongside scientists to design instruments for space and land telescopes, and visit the unique lab spaces that the engineers use to test and build these instruments. Sessions must be pre-booked.
ABERDEEN: A number of local employers and institutes will have a variety of hands-on activities for you to take part in at Aberdeen Science Centre, from building your own salt water car to driving an ROV.
No need to book – just turn up. Please note, this event takes place on Saturday, August 4.
For more info on Engineering Open House Day and to book your place, visit http://www.engineera-better-world.org/whats-on/