Becoming a STEMNET Ambassador: My Journey

By Clive Hutchings, REC Regional Director and STEMnet Ambassador

As a member of the REC Engineering & Technical Executive Committee and a member of the REC Council, the skills debate is one I am acutely engaged with – both as a voice within the REC and as a business professional. Much more needs to be done to address the widening skills gap, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths or the so called STEM fields.

Like many people, I’ve always wanted to give back to organisations that helped shape my future and will guide future employees. To this end, I have occasionally been in contact with universities, schools and colleges as part of my role within STR. 

I’d heard of STEMNET before and knew they worked to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths aiming to inspire young people and provide resources to develop their creativity, problem-solving and employability skills.  As a recruiter I didn’t really think that they’d be interested in connecting with me.

STEMNET presented on their work at an REC Engineering & Technical sector group meeting in Manchester earlier this year. I found myself thoroughly engaged. I was encouraged to sign up as they explained how recruiters could add value to their campaign from their unique perspective in the labour market whereas before this wasn’t something I had considered.

Following the Manchester meeting, I attended a local induction day, completed a few formalities and am now a fully signed-up STEM Ambassador. 

The programme requires that you attend one event annually, though I hope to be supporting in a range of capacities; from careers events, careers advice to coaching - ultimately helping young people to find a way forward when it’s not always clear. Recruiters are uniquely positioned to be able to offer practical and market driven guidance on the range of opportunities available in the STEM fields. Our relationships with employers often means that they are well positioned to advise younger people on the recruitment process into these fields and assist prospective candidates through the process from application to shortlisting to interview and onwards.

While the sector companies and their connections will also help my business, I’m really looking forward to being able to give back some support and ultimately contribute in a meaningful way.  So in my book, it’s a win-win.

I would encourage other members of the REC to sign up to this programme and I would be happy to answer any questions you might have on this programme via email at chutchings@kasus.co.uk. Do let the REC know when you have signed up so that we can connect members considering doing so with those that have already signed up to the initiative.

For further information on the STEM Ambassador programme click here.