Amey engineering challenge inspires girls into STEM
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.”