Ocean Infinity show young women a career path in STEM

On January 25th, girls from Oasis Mayfield and Bitterne Park School were invited to the offices of Ocean Infinity, a Solent-based technology firm that is developing new methods of working at sea that are safer and more environmentally friendly than the industry's seen before.

Girls from Year 10 were invited to see their facilities as part of a collaboration with the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership's (LEP) Careers Hub.

Students interacted with different staff members about discussed certain positions at Ocean Infinity and what they've learned from their own career paths and experiences. Staff members provided hints and advice on how to build a successful, long-term career. The advice was to take advantage of every chance and not to undervalue your personal and professional networks.

The purpose of the event was to showcase the various talents and occupations that are primarily available to women in STEM. The event was designed to raise awareness of women working in STEM fields, the amazing businesses and opportunities they have access to in the Solent region, and STEM vocations in general.

LEP Director and Skills Lead Brooke Hoskins, said this: "Sadly, many girls don’t even consider careers in STEM, so it's vital that businesses engage with girls through schools to profile STEM careers and for students to meet some of the women working in this sector every day. This was a perfect opportunity to highlight to secondary school students the amazing industries and careers available on their doorstep, here in the Solent region."

“The Solent LEP's Careers Hub connects businesses with schools and colleges across the Solent area and helps them ensure that their curriculum is relevant to the sector strengths of the economy, and the jobs that employers want filled. Encounters like these for pupils with innovative, technological businesses like Ocean Infinity, are key."

Colin Field is the Head of Marine Remote Systems at Ocean Infinity. He said this about the scheme: “It was a pleasure to open our doors and share the innovative work being carried out at Ocean Infinity in Southampton, using technology to transform operations at sea, enabling people and the planet to thrive."

“We were impressed with the inquisitive nature of the students and hope that we have encouraged them to consider a career in STEM, by showing them how many different types of roles and skills are required in high-tech companies such as ours. Ocean Infinity is always looking to the future, we are passionate about inspiring the next generation, and are grateful to the Solent Careers Hub for organising this visit.”

Girls who attended the event from Oasis Mayfield and Bitterne Park School said:

"I showed Ocean Infinity's website to my parents last night, I definitely would love a career like that." 

"Everyone was so nice, imagine your job being that cool!"

"I'd love to work at such an interesting company..."

READ MORE: Ocean Infinity sets up state-of-the-art facility in Southampton