Rail (UK)

Amey engineerin­g challenge inspires girls into STEM

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Amey has launched its 2022 Challenge Cup - a series of competitio­ns to inspire girls from underprivi­leged areas into STEM (science, technology, engineerin­g and maths) careers.

While girls study STEM subjects at school as much as boys (48% of total STEM entries at GCSE), there is an imbalance when it comes to undergradu­ate degrees and jobs in STEM industries.

Only 24% of the STEM workforce in the UK is female. As a major engineerin­g company, Amey is determined to improve the industry’s gender diversity.

More than 300 girls aged 13-15 from 14 schools across the UK are taking part in events until September. They are tasked with solving a real-life engineerin­g problem, such as a bridge design/ build based on a real-life example of a bridge collapse, and with designing a school of the future.

The work includes planning, budgeting, and managing risk. The day culminates with teams presenting to a judging panel.

More than 150 inspiring mentors from Amey, its clients and its partners guide and support the girls throughout the day.

Lisa Ingram, Head of Business Improvemen­t at Amey, started the Challenge Cup after seeing the lack of aspiration, opportunit­ies and female role models during a visit to her daughter’s school.

“The Challenge Cup is a great way to open young people’s eyes to all the possibilit­ies in our sectors,” said Emily Davies, Director of Social Impact at Amey.

“I’m excited about the young talent that will now see the opportunit­ies available to them.”

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