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UKEA supports future engineers initiative
While the number of engineering and technology graduates has shown a steady increase from a low of 18,500 in 2001/2 to 20,400 in 2007/8, this represents a decline when expressed as a percentage of all graduates. In addition, a report by Cambridge Assessment A Level Choice in England published in 2007 showed that only 9.8% of pupils in comprehensive schools study A level physics and only 22.4% study A level maths. The picture is therefore one of a workforce rapidly approaching retirement with a shortage of appropriately qualified potential candidates to replace them. Equally, this represents a very significant career opportunity for today’s students who are considering, or perhaps who should be considering pursuing a career in the electronics sector in the future. The STEM Ambassadors programme is STEMNET’s flagship programme, relying on over 18,000 volunteers who offer their time and support to promote STEM subjects to young learners. However, electronics is relatively under-represented in the programme while UK electronics sector continues to suffer a shortage of appropriately qualified technical staff. To address this discrepancy, UK Electronics Alliance members have agreed to support STEMNET by promoting the STEM Ambassador programme to its members. Alliance members will engage in a range of activities including promoting the STEM Ambassador programme on their websites and in newsletters, distributing promotional material and providing presentation slots at member meetings to help recruit new Ambassadors. STEM Ambassadors are an invaluable resource for teachers, helping them deliver the STEM curriculum in fresh and innovative ways. As an Ambassador, volunteers have the opportunity to gain a fresh perspective on day-to-day work when seen through the eyes of students, face a different challenge to that of everyday work, help make a difference in the local community, challenge stereotypes young people have about STEM subjects and related careers and strengthen their own skills, including communication, planning and presentation skills. By promoting the STEM Ambassador programme to their staff, they are encouraging staff to gain wider skills in a new environment and developing closer links between their organisations and the local community.
Date: 22nd December 2009
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