STEM Returners marks milestone after helping 500 people get back into work

Hampshire’s STEM Returners has now helped 500 professionals return to employment after a career break.

The company works with leading STEM organisations to host short-term paid employment placements for candidates who have been out of work for some time.

Candidates undertake real work experience in a specific role, and at the end of the placement they have the opportunity to become permanent members of staff.

Natalie Desty founded STEM Returners in 2017 after she saw how hard it was for STEM professionals to return to work if they had a gap in their CV.

Natalie said: “After working in recruitment for many years, I could see how hard it was for STEM professionals who had been out of employment to re-enter their profession.

“I wanted to provide an inclusive way back for those talented people who were being let down by outdated recruitment methods.”

At first, Natalie established a small pilot returners programme with BAE Systems in Portsmouth.

It was a success for both returners and BAE Systems, and since then, other internationally renowned firms from the engineering, aerospace, renewables, tech and construction sectors have launched returners programmes across the UK and Ireland.

David from Southampton recently took part in a programme with global security company Leonardo as a systems engineer.

David previously taught STEM subjects at college and holds a PhD in mathematics and two master’s degrees in data science and operational research from the University of Southampton.

He wanted to use these qualifications and his skills in industry. However, he found that the transition became an uphill battle.

David said: “One of the challenges I faced was the combination of my age, my unemployed status and my lack of recent experience in the industry.

“Initially, I doubted whether I’d be a good fit for a position at Leonardo, as I didn’t have any formal experience as a systems engineer.

“However, I was thrilled to be proven wrong.

“This opportunity has been transformative for me. Often, all we need is a chance to prove our potential.

“For many skilled and capable individuals, age or a career break can feel like significant barriers, but the programme has given both me and the hiring managers the time to assess whether I would be a good fit for the company.

“Although the learning curve was steep, I adapted quickly and began to contribute to real projects.”

Research from STEM Returners shows the challenges people face when trying to return to work following a career break, with recruitment bias against age, gender and recent experience being the main barriers to entry.

STEM Returners’ programme aims to eliminate these barriers by giving candidates real work experience and mentoring during their placement, as well as supporting them in adjusting seamlessly to life back at work.

Natalie added: “We’re extremely proud to have supported 500 STEM professionals to return to work at some of the world’s leading firms.

“For too long, returners have faced bias in the recruitment system and been penalised for a career break.

“We’re making some progress however, and this significant milestone is a testament to the hard work of every member of the team and the organisations who share our passion of creating a more inclusive recruitment process.

“Only by working together will we make vital changes in STEM recruitment, to help those who are finding it challenging to return to the sector and improve diversity and inclusion.”