International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) is a great opportunity to raise awareness about all the exciting career opportunities available to girls in STEM.
A company that totally aligns with the values of INWED is Schneider Electric, which understands the importance of encouraging more girls - and boys - into STEM to challenge industry stereotypes and diversify the talent pipeline.
That's why Schneider Electric and Primary Engineer, a not for profit educational organisation, hosted an impressive event and competition where primary school pupils showcased the results of their hands-on experience designing, building and styling their own electric vehicle.
“The UK faces a huge engineering skills shortage – and we need to do something about it. At Schneider Electric, we are passionate about helping to transition our young people from education to employment," says Phil Moulden, Support Director of Industrial Automation for Schneider Electric.
"This is why it’s vital that we provide the right training and offer exposure to the world of engineering from a young age. Only then can we ignite a passion for a potential future career in the industry. We chose to partner with Primary Engineer in the hope of supporting schools in STEM training and in widening the potential talent pool of the future.”
Promoting careers in engineering
The competition tasked young innovators from ten schools across the Coventry and Warwick area with testing their electric vehicles on ramps to test power and durability. The morning session offered an opportunity for pupils to demonstrate what they had learnt and how they built their vehicles.
With funding from Schneider Electric, teachers from the local schools attended a training session at the Coventry offices and were paired with Schneider Electric engineers to learn how to deliver the school-based STEM activities. Each school was given comprehensive lesson plans and resources to construct eight vehicles per school. The Schneider Electric engineers visited the schools throughout the programme to provide pupils with support and to promote careers in engineering.
Breaking down stereotypes in engineering
Part of the Primary Engineer programme is designed to break down stereotypes associated with the world of engineering. The competition offered the chance for school pupils to gain skills and competences and introduced a practical element into the curriculum for pupils at an early age.
Impacting the lives of young people
The winning teams were chosen based on the vehicle’s performance in the testing stage, its build quality, its design and control as well as awards for best design and best communicators. The winning teams were awarded certificates and medals, with a comprehensive on-going support package from Schneider Electric.
“Working with companies like Schneider Electric is a vital part of what we do. We are thrilled that Schneider Electric has been able to support us in impacting the lives of young people in the Coventry and Warwick area," adds Chris Rochester, UK Director for Primary Engineer.
"Ultimately, we aim to inspire pupils and teachers alike through their professional development and through our competitions to spark a passion for a skilled and understaffed industry. We’re excited to judge the electric vehicles that these students have worked so hard on with the support of their teachers. Good luck to all participants.”
Work for a company inspiring the next generation of innovators
How could you make a difference through a career at Schneider Electric? The company seeks out employees who reflect the diversity of the communities in which they operate. They are committed to giving back to the community by inspiring the next generation and are looking for people with a passion for success.
Learn more about Schneider Electric's job vacancies and see where your career will take you.
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Disclosure: Where Women Work researches and publishes insightful evidence about how its paid member organizations support women's equality.