Hampshire’s STEM Returners kicks off third programme with AWE

AWE and STEM Returners are partnering for a third time to continue their drive to help science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) professionals return to work after a career break.

The announcement follows two successful previous programmes which have enabled more than 20 people to secure new roles.

The new programme will welcome 15 professionals into AWE across multiple disciplines such as science, engineering, and corporate business functions.

STEM Returners, based in Fareham, Hampshire, will help source candidates and support them with mentoring and career coaching services.

Natalie Desty, director of STEM Returners, said: “STEM Returners and AWE share a deep commitment to improving the way the engineering industry views people who take a career break and increase equity in STEM.

“There’s a misconception that a gap on the CV leads to a deterioration of skills but that could not be further from the truth.

“We’re delighted to launch a third programme to continue that work and look forward to helping more people return to the sector.”

Karen McMahon, head of talent acquisition at AWE, added: “Taking a break doesn’t mean a career should be curtailed, and we’re delighted that our partnership with STEM Returners continues to ensure that talented and qualified people are able to return to the industry.

“AWE is striving to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work.

“Our aim is to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion at AWE and encourage diverse applicants.”

There exists a well-known skills shortage in the UK engineering industry – but despite a clear demand for people, talented and educated returners who are willing and able to take on these roles are often overlooked.

Research from STEM Returners found that recruitment bias has proven to be the main barrier for people trying to return to work.

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

Since it launched in 2017, more than 500 professionals have found a permanent role.

One candidate from a previous AWE programme said: “I’ve been at AWE for over six months, working as a mechanical engineer as part of a larger team consisting of other types of engineers and physicists.

“Since starting, full support has been provided by my line manager to ensure I can undertake tasks to the best of my ability.

“Learning has been a key part of the induction process, which has provided me with an understanding of AWE’s role in the UK’s defence strategy and overview of its rich history.

“My job is a dream come true and I’m truly grateful to STEM Returners for providing me with the opportunity to work in such a prestigious role with scope to further my career in the future.”