Electronics company RS Components has worked with the IET on an event promoting tech careers to students from BAME and low socioeconomic backgrounds.
The event, called Reflect, ran at Hawker House in London on Thursday 1 August.
Aimed at young people aged 18–25, the event highlighted the range of career opportunities across the engineering and technology sectors, and showcased cutting-edge technology that students may not have previously had access to.
Speakers and role models from the BAME community, including engineer and innovator Yewande Akinola, Sky Women in Tech scholar Colleen Wong, and founder of Jervis Entertainment Media, Terry Jervis.
The role models shared their success stories and encouraged students to pursue their goals.
Following the main event, delegates can sign up to a series of follow up activities and mentorship programmes to provide soft skills training, workshops and a careers fair.
– Isabella Mascarenhas, RS Components
Jo Foster, diversity and inclusion manager at the IET, said: “Engineering and technology is a fantastic career but more needs to be done to ensure that STEM is being promoted as a viable career path for everyone.
“Following this year’s launch event, we are aiming to make Reflect an annual national day and event. We know that the initial inspiring part is easy, but there must be a tangible follow-up to keep the momentum going.”
Isabella Mascarenhas, vice president – grass roots and shining stars at RS Components, said: “Following the main event, delegates can sign up to a series of follow up activities and mentorship programmes to provide soft skills training, workshops and a careers fair. The ultimate goal is to offer employment opportunities to these young people to improve their future prospects.”
More information on Reflect is available at www.reflectchanges.com